Woodanilling Trotting Track Site

Statement of Significance

The site is important for its association with the development of recreational activities in
the district

History

The formation of Woodanilling Trotting Club in late 1919 saw the first country club
formed. This was approved by the Western Australian Trotting Association with certain
conditions. The first official meeting took place at Easter (April 3) 1920, with fields of
seven to eight horses in each event. These early meetings saw the horses being ridden at
a trot instead of the later style of being driven. Stan Dival was the foundation secretary
and ER Bell the president. The first trotting races at Woodanilling had been held almost
seven years before on a track surveyed around the recreation ground.

In August 1920, the secretary announced that a revision of registered horses was taking
place and that drivers in future had to obtain a reinsmen's licence. Negotiations were
being made for the introduction to the district of a leading trotting sire. The club was to
meet on the question of whether race meetings should be held at Woodanilling or Wagin.
The trotting club however went defunct in 1926 through a dwindling population and local
enthusiasts found it necessary to take their horses to the newly formed Katanning Club's
meetings. It was not until 25 years later that a new trotting track was graded north of the
recreation ground to give local trainers a place to exercise and train their horses.

Among the early identities were Richard Wilcox, Fred Wilson, John Lane, Doug Wilson
and Alf Mader. Richard Wilcox was the local handicapper before the WATA rules were
imposed. He also raced his own horses. Fred Wilson and John Lane bred and raced their
horses in partnership. Their horses were recognised as being top class in the area. Alf
Mader used to ride his rough looking little bay mare 'Spanker', whose ability and nature
belied her looks. 'Spanker' was a brumby mare of unknown origin.

At the 1925 Boxing Day Sports, 'Waroona' (owned and driven by J Dorries) captured the big
event of the day, namely the one and a half mile trot. Old 'Spanker', at 2 to 1 on was firm
favourite up to the gong, but finished unplaced The attendance was a record, the oval in
good condition and although the trotting track was inclined to be heavy, the races were of a
good class and well contested 'Spanker' had earlier in the afternoon run second in the
handicap trot of PA miles.

Later names associated with the sport include Fred and David Moulden (who stood the
stallion "Refiner" at their Boyerine farm and Jack King.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.