A day out at the Western Downs races is a day well spent. There is never a need to follow the horses or like a punt to enjoy the atmosphere of the country race meets.

Racing on the Western Downs is a place where the fashion stakes are high, but heels and fascinators are as much at home as a pair of RM Williams boots and an Akubra.

The illustrious Dalby Picnic Races weekend kicks off a huge week of festivities on Saturday 28 April, with the inception of an exciting new event – Big Skies.

Celebrating the beauty of Dalby’s big skies, with its postcard worthy blues by day and endless blanket of stars by night, Big Skies will recognise what makes the Western Downs great from the ground up, showcasing the rich and productive local agriculture.

Rock on with the likes of The Eurogliders, Wendy Matthews, Joe Camilleri and the Black Sorrows, Glenn Shorrock, Richard Clapton, Frankie J Holden and Wilbur Wilde at the highly anticipated Day on the Plain.

May the force be with you from the comfort of your chair, with a guided tour of the galaxy or experience the night skies at one of the cinema under the stars evenings.Indulge in a champagne breakfast and a morning of hot air ballooning over the Jimbour Plains.

Foodies and market lovers will enjoy the Food & Fibre event showcasing local produce and the talents of regional artisans.

Head along and say hi to the much loved children’s entertainer, George the Farmer, and foodie, cook, author and television personality Hayden Quinn. Camping is available onsite at the historical Jimbour Station.