Hunter Clubs Hit $1m Milestone for Breast Cancer Charity

The tradition, where racegoers dress in pink as clubs unite to drive fundraising efforts, has become one of the biggest days on the Newcastle Jockey Club calendar since its launch in 2009 under the guidance of ClubsNSW Life Member Jon Chin.

Beresford Bowling Club, Club Charlestown, Wests Group, Club Macquarie, Mex Club, East Maitland Bowling Club, Belmont 16s Sailing Club and Toronto Workers Club sponsored eight of the nine races this year — the other bearing HBCF’s name — with many other club representatives and industry suppliers in attendance for a great cause.

Having raised $850,000 across the lifetime of the Pink Race Day prior to 2026, the clubs set a target of $150,000 in hopes of reaching the magical million-dollar milestone.

Through a silent auction, raffles, ClubGrants commitments and generous on-the-spot donations — including $30,000 from Wests Group — the goal was well and truly achieved with a final fundraising tally of $242,000. An astounding $178,000 of that was directly generated by clubs.

Pink confetti rained down in celebration after the figure was announced to a cheering crowd in the Pavilion Room.

Belmont 16s Sailing Club CEO and Pink Race Day organiser Scott Williams spoke of his pride at the outcome, emphasising the importance of clubs giving back to such initiatives. 

“This is a case of local clubs supporting a local charity which supports our local community,” Mr Williams said.

“I think the benefit that comes of a charity associated with a cause like breast cancer, and cancer generally, is it touches so many people through society.

“Everyone knows someone, a family member or an acquaintance, who's been on that journey, so it certainly gets traction. And it's a day in July when it's a bit cool and everyone likes to dress up in some sort of pink attire.

“It's grown from something a little bit small into something quite big … Newcastle and the Hunter is a pretty big area and we have lots of clubs, but this is one thing that binds us all together.”

The funds will have a huge impact, with HBCF specialising in offering practical support and care for breast cancer patients.

"The Clubs in the Community Pink Race Day is the biggest fundraiser on the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation calendar and plays a vital role in ensuring we can continue supporting hundreds of people across the Hunter as they navigate a breast cancer diagnosis,” HBCF General Manager Louise Ross said.

“The incredible generosity of local clubs, businesses and community members helps us provide practical, emotional and financial support to those impacted by breast cancer when they need it most. 

“Surpassing the remarkable milestone of $1 million raised over the lifetime of this event is a testament to the ongoing commitment of our local clubs and our community and the difference we can make together."