Photo Credit: Saskia Photography
By Garry Dell
Iconic former Gold Coast race caller Steve Hawkins was in his element at Burdekin Race Club's Cup meeting, which doubled as a Battle Of The Bush qualifying heat, at Home Hill on Saturday.
With microphone in hand, Hawkins assisted with presentations of trophies to winning connections and displayed his well-worn wit interviewing trainers and jockeys.
Hawkins, with a background of country racing before a 20 year career on the Glitter Strip of Queensland, is enjoying his new role of a business development executive and hosting several fund-raising sporting events in and around Brisbane.
"This is what racing is all about,'" Hawkins said.
"The fields are good, racing has been competitive and the crowd has taken full opportunity to bring out the finery and dress up for the Fashion On The Field contest.
"It's great to see female trainers and jockeys sharing in the spoils and patrons walking home with fruit and veggies generously donated by local growers.
"I hope I can come back next year"
Hawkins was assisted at the presentations by club president Ricky Gudge and stalwart life member Charlie Barbagello.
Former long-term president Ray Tapiolas and secretary wife Denise paid tribute to the hard-working present day committee and helpers.
Although it was a non-TAB meeting, two windows of a remote TAB facility operated along with a strong ring of bookmakers taking bets on local, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide meetings.
