Kembla Classic to Launch Expanded Autumn Carnival at Kembla Grange

The Group 3 $250,000 Kembla Grange Classic will headline the launch of an expanded seven-meeting Autumn Carnival at Kembla Grange Racecourse, beginning Friday, 13th March.

The 1600m feature for three-year-old fillies has built a reputation as a springboard to elite success, with past runners including Hot Danish, Allez Wonder, Appearance and Single Gaze. Recent graduates have continued that trend, with 2025 runner You Wangh claiming Group 1 success in the Queensland Oaks.

The Illawarra Turf Club Chairman Mark Sleigh said the extended carnival program reflected growing momentum at Kembla Grange.

“The Kembla Classic has become one of the premier autumn features outside Sydney, and we’re proud to build an expanded carnival around it,” Mr Sleigh said.

“From high-quality racing to community events and entertainment, this carnival showcases everything that makes Kembla Grange such a vibrant destination.”

The opening twilight meeting will see Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Wayne Harris (pictured) inducted as a Legend of The Illawarra Turf Club, joining champion riders Cliff Clare, Harold Light, Norm Munsie and premiership-winning trainer Gwenda Markwell.

Long-serving Director Barry Vandenbergh will also be honoured with the 2400m Barry Vandenbergh Kembla Grange Stayers Cup named in recognition of his 24 years of service.

Beyond the Classic, the Autumn Carnival includes:

• TLE Raceday featuring the $150,000 Provincial-Midway Championships Qualifier (21st March)

• ANZAC Memorial Raceday (18th April)

• Mother’s Day Races (9th May)

• Country Music Raceday headlined by Tori Darke (16th May)

• The new Track & Taste Raceday showcasing regional producers (30th May)

• The Race Against Suicide Raceday supporting local mental health services (21st June)

Tickets and hospitality packages are available now via Moshtix, with general admission from $10 and luncheons from $75.

For media enquiries please contact Chief Executive Officer Steven Keene on (02) 4261 7211 or steven@illawarraturf.com.au