Historical information

Wodonga Racing club and Wodonga Citizens Racing club amalgamated to become Wodonga Turf Club in November 1901. The Club has operated continuously since then apart from a period during World War II when the racecourse was taken over by the military.

During its history the Club has operated under three main names: the Wodonga Racing Club from the1850s until 1901, the Wodonga Turf Club from1901 and the Wodonga & District Turf since 1983. For some traditional events and marketing the name “Wodonga Racing Club” was used.

This badge was produced for the Wodonga Racing Club (officially the Wodonga Turf Club) St Patrick’s Day Race meet. It is undated which allowed the Club to use the same design for several years. The celluloid badge design suggests it was produced in the late 1950s until the 1970s.

St Patrick’s Day was a highly celebrated event on the racing calendar. The very first horse race specifically organized as a dedicated St. Patrick's Day charity meeting in Wodonga was held on Wednesday, March 17, 1909.

In order to secure an annual fixture on the racing calendar the Wodonga St. Patrick's Racing Club was formalised in 1920 and the race became an annual fixture in 1921. It was specifically created to run as an annual charity race day. For over 70 years, the proceeds generated from the gate admissions and the sale of badges such as this went toward supporting local community assets, most notably St. Augustine’s Parish School funds.
The last formal horse racing event held under the banner of the Wodonga St. Patrick’s Race Club took place on Sunday, March 5, 2000

Significance

This badge is significant because it represents a local Wodonga racing event held to raise funds for St Augustine's Parish School. The event was conducted for over 70 years.

Physical description

A small metal and plastic badge featuring the emblem of the Wodonga Racing Club. It features a green and white shield on a grey background. The background is scattered with green shamrocks. The shield includes a yellow horse and rider in front of a green tree silhouette.

Inscriptions & markings

Wodonga Racing Club