The Newcastle & Hunter (“the Region”) Racing Hall of Fame recognises and honours outstanding achievements in the Thoroughbred Industry emanating from the Region.
The eligibility clauses for Jockey, Trainer and Associate require the nominee to be born in the Region, predominantly domiciled in the Region, or made a significant contribution to the Racing Industry in the Region, to be eligible.
CATEGORIES
There are four categories within the Hall of Fame:
- Horses
- Trainers
- Jockeys
- Associates
Horses:
Any horse trained and competing out of Newcastle Racecourse or any other Hunter Valley Racecourse which is considered a product of the Newcastle and/or Hunter Regions, and which has excelled at the highest level in the Region including:
- An exceptional influence on the Newcastle and/or Australian Thoroughbred Industry whilst racing
- Made a significant contribution to the breeding industry after retiring from racing
- Horses are not ineligible if they are still racing, excel overseas, or because of age, sex, number of race starts, or ownership.
Trainers:
Any trainer who has been licensed by a principal club in Australia, was born in the Region, predominantly domiciled in the Region, or made a significant contribution to the Racing Industry in the Region.
- Made an outstanding contribution to enhancing the Newcastle and/or Australian Thoroughbred Industry
- Consistently achieved results at the highest level, or in trainers’ premierships
- Excelled in horse husbandry, nurturing apprentices, and promoting the Industry
Candidates may be either active or retired trainers.
Jockeys:
Any jockey who has been licensed by a principal club in Australia, was born in the Region, predominantly domiciled in the Region, or made a significant contribution to the Racing Industry in the Region.
- Made an outstanding contribution to enhancing the Australian Thoroughbred Industry
- Consistently achieved results at the highest level, or in jockeys’ premierships
- Excelled in race riding and promoting the Industry
Candidates may be either active or retired jockeys
Associates:
Any person, other than persons eligible for the trainers’ and jockeys’ categories who have made an outstanding contribution to the Newcastle and/or Australian Thoroughbred Industry. This category includes:
- Breeders, owners, administrators, media, bookmakers, and anyone else who has made an outstanding contribution to the Newcastle or Australian Thoroughbred Industry.
Candidates may still be active in their profession and need not reside in Australia or be Australian.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FROM THE NEWCASTLE & HUNTER RACING HALL OF FAME
Since its inception in 2017, the Newcastle and Hunter Racing Hall of Fame has proudly celebrated the rich heritage of Thoroughbred Racing in our region. The 2025 inductions mark the fifth round of inductees, once again highlighting the depth, quality, and enduring legacy of racing in the Newcastle and Hunter area.
The contributions of individuals and horses from this region to Australian Thoroughbred Racing span more than a century and continue to shape the sport nationally. Notably, many inductees of the Newcastle and Hunter Racing Hall of Fame are also honoured in the Australian Racing Hall of Fame, further validating the region’s significant impact.
The Hall of Fame website outlines the criteria used by the selection panel, with a strong emphasis on regional relevance. In summary:
- Trainers, jockeys, and associates may be eligible if they were born in the region, have been primarily based here, or have made a substantial contribution to the local racing industry
- Horses must have been trained at a racecourse within the Newcastle and Hunter Valley region during their careers
Following the 2023 inductions, the Newcastle Jockey Club introduced a new way of honouring Hall of Fame inductees. All past and present inductees are now commemorated on an honour board located in the ‘Hunter’ Winning Owners Room, a space rich with racing nostalgia. We warmly invite inductees and guests to visit and reflect on the legacy preserved within.
On behalf of the Newcastle Jockey Club and the Hall of Fame Selection Panel, congratulations to all 2025 inductees. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the dedicated members of the Selection Panel, who have served since 2017 and continue to play a vital role in the success of the Hall of Fame.
Duane Dowell
Chairman, Selection Panel
Newcastle & Hunter Racing Hall of Fame
To view the booklet for the 2025 Hall of Fame, click here.
Face of the Hunter 2026
Newcastle Racecourse is on the search for two incredible ambassadors – one male and one female – to be crowned The Face of The Hunter 2026.
Do you embody the style, spirit, and energy of The Hunter? This is your chance to step into the spotlight.
Our winners will represent Newcastle Racecourse at feature race days and key events across 2026, appearing in official marketing campaigns, social media, and on-course promotions.
The Prize
Two winners: one male, one female
Each winner receives a $1,000 gift card
VIP treatment at every feature race day across 2026, including 2x complimentary tickets per event
The chance to be the official Face of The Hunter in Newcastle Racecourse’s 2026 campaigns
How to Enter
Complete the online entry form
Upload your photo(s) and short bio
Tell us why you should be the Face of The Hunter
Key Dates
Entries open: Saturday, 20 September 2025
Entries close: Sunday, 12 October
Winners Showcased: Saturday, 15 November 2025 at The Hunter Race Day
