Canberra Racecourse Tips & Latest News

Canberra racecourse is the nation's capital's top thoroughbred track.

Home to the Group Three Black Opal Stakes, Canberra features two race tracks, the turf course proper Thoroughbred Park and the all-weather Acton Track.

Canberra Racecourse History

Canberra is one of Australia’s most modern racing facilities. Featuring two race tracks, the turf course proper Thoroughbred Park and the all-weather Acton Track, it is one of only three metropolitan tracks in Australia that offer both.

Redeveloped in 2004 to incorporate a new all-weather track known as the Acton Track, the new Canberra Racecourse was first used for the Canberra Cup race meeting in October, 2005.

Canberra Racecourse hosts two major race days each year, the Group Three Black Opal Stakes and Canberra Cup Day. 

The Black Opal Stakes began back in 1973 and is worth $250,000. The Canberra Cup is worth $200,000 and is raced each year on a Sunday in November.

Canberra Racecourse Bookie Promotions

Not only do our trusted bookmakers frame early markets at Canberra, they also deliver promotions on the big events.

Our online wagering partners deliver Canberra bookmaker offers, which means after you've read our comprehensive reviews on their platforms you should check their sites for what promotions are on offer.

Canberra Racecourse Free Bets

Due to Australian regulations bookmakers are no longer allowed to offer free bets to prospective or existing customers.

However, bookmakers do still offer money back specials which essentially amount to free bets if successful so check with your bookie to see if they are delivering Canberra free bets.

Canberra Feature Dates - 2025/26

Date Event Name Notes
Sunday, 9 March 2025 John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Race Day Group 3 Black Opal Stakes, TAB Canberra Cup, 10-race card
Saturday, 31 January – Sunday, 1 February 2026 Canberra Festival of Speed Two-day motorsport and automotive culture event
Sunday, 8 March 2026 Black Opal Stakes Day Feature race day with the Black Opal Stakes

Canberra Racecourse Results

Canberra races all throughout the year on both its all-weather and the turf track, so to keep up with the latest Canberra results visit their website to see how your horse fared.

Canberra Racecourse Bet Of The Day

Our experts watch and analyse races at Canberra to deliver the best bets of each and every card.

Keep an eye out before every meeting for our Canberra bet of the day.

Canberra Racecourse Social News

To get all the Moonee Valley social news your best bet is the visit the Moonee Valley social media channels.

Canberra's twitter feed can be found @thoroughbredpk while their Facebook page can be found by clicking here.
                                       

Canberra Racecourse FAQ

How do I get to Canberra race course?

The Canberra racecourse is located at Randwick Road, Lyneham. Located just 15 minutes from the heart of the Canberra and along the new Light Rail, Thoroughbred Park races on the Course Proper in the warmer months and the Acton synthetic track throughout Winter. There is also parking at Canberra race course for those wanting to drive along.

When is the 2026 Canberra Cup?

The 2026 Canberra Cup will be run on Sunday, March 9.

Can you bring your own food into Canberra race course?

On most race days you are permitted to bring your own food into Canberra race course subject to approval from the security guards on course. 

Can you bring your own alcohol into Canberra race course?

BYO drinks at Canberra race course are strictly prohibited under liquor licensing laws that extend to almost every venue in Australia.

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