Cystic Fibrosis Race Day results in a rosy $70,000 for charity

    Fundraising at Cystic Fibrosis Race Day

    Vibrant red roses decorated Newcastle Racecourse as the community and Cystic Fibrosis Community Care supporters assembled for Cystic Fibrosis Race Day on Saturday, June 22nd.

    Supported by their sponsor, Peabody, the race day helped raise more than $70,000 to assist those living with Cystic Fibrosis and their families.

    “Cystic Fibrosis is a life-limiting genetic condition that affects thousands of Australians,” says Linda Cheese, a Clinical Nurse Consultant (CNC) at John Hunter Children’s Hospital Respiratory and Cystic Fibrosis Service.

    “While recent breakthroughs in medication, like Trikafta, have provided hope and improved quality of life for many CF patients, there is still much work to be done,”

    “The money raised during the race day will support CF patients and their families in throughout the region,” Linda Cheese advised.

    Newcastle Racecourse Trackside Marquee was at almost full capacity for the event where funds were raised from an onsite raffle, auction, the sale of red roses, and mystery bag lucky dips sold throughout the day.

    A portion of Newcastle Racecourse ticket sales also formed part of the overall fundraising amount raised for Cystic Fibrosis Community Care.

    Newcastle Racecourse CEO, Duane Dowell, expressed his pride in the racecourse’s involvement in hosting and supporting the event.

    “It’s an honour for us to be involved in organising Race Day events for charity groups like Cystic Fibrosis Community Care,” said Duane Dowell.

    “It’s satisfying to see the difference fundraising at Newcastle Racecourse can have for those living with Cystic Fibrosis,” he said.

    This year marked twenty-two years of Cystic Fibrosis Race Day at Newcastle Racecourse, with fundraising for the cause stemming back to 2002 when sisters Jodi and Carolyn Boyd started the race day in memory of their daughter Katie Boyd. Since then, Linda Cheese has been the coordinator of the event.

    “We’re so grateful for everything that has been done during the race day event and the difference it will make to those affected by Cystic Fibrosis,” said Linda Cheese.

    “Newcastle Racecourse is a great place to hold an event. It is a chance for everyone to come and enjoy the races and mingle with friends, whilst also raising some money for a valuable cause like Cystic Fibrosis Community Care.”

    – 28.06.2024 –

    For a full copy of the media release, click here.

    For further details, or to arrange an interview, please contact

    CEO Duane Dowell

    E: duane@njc.com.au

    M: 0423 925 588