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The local racing community of the Central West will gather at Towac Park Racecourse in Orange for a special day of connection and peer support on Saturday, 14 February 2026.

The Racing Mates program will hold a BBQ get-together aimed at fostering mental health awareness and camaraderie among industry participants.

The event is part of the Racing Mates initiative, established by Racing NSW in 2016 to provide peer-to-peer assistance for trainers, jockeys, stablehands and officials.

At the heart of the program is the belief that while clinical support is vital, people are often most comfortable opening up to a trusted peer who understands the unique pressures of the racing industry.

Celebrated former trainer Pat Webster - famous for his association with the champion horse Happy Clapper - is a key ambassador and will be on hand to share his passion for mental health advocacy.

“First of all, we encourage people to talk to each other,” Webster said. “The whole concept of the Racing Mates program is to encourage people to stop and talk to each other – especially mates to mates, and, friends to friends.

“There is nothing better than talking to someone who understands where you're coming from.”

Racing Mates BBQs offer a relaxed, informal setting for participants to step away from the high-stakes environment of the stables and simply talk.

Beyond the social aspect, the initiative connects those in need with a network of trained peers, counsellors and clinical psychologists.

"If people are doing it tough, they’ve got to get in touch with us," said Phillip O'Brien, Racing NSW's General Manager-Participant Welfare.

"It’s about starting that conversation, letting people know that they are not alone and that professional assistance is available if they need it.”

The Racing Mates Orange Get-Together will be held from 12.30pm for racing participants. For further information visit racingmates.com.au or phone (02) 6332 4186.