The Katherine races are back on for 2020, with numbers capped at about two thirds the usual crowd.
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It is a tremendous result for Katherine Turf Club president Paul Mullins and his team which had to jump through many hoops to make the town's biggest annual social event come alive again.
Already many people are counting down the days to the August 15 event, capped at 2200 guests who will pay about $25 apiece for a general admission ticket.
Following Health Department directions the popular event will be capped with tickets to be sold online only.
Their win is some consolation for Katherine which already lost the town's biggest public event, the annual show, through pandemic restrictions.
The event will provide alcohol, but guests are invited to bring along their own food and Eskies for the day.
Under 15's will enter free, but COVID-19 has made the usual children's entertainment and rides impossible for this year.
Mr Mullins says he is relieved after a long wait for the final approval from liquor licensing.
"We've finally got it!" he said.
"It's taken a long time but we know it'll be a great event for everyone in the community," Mr Mullins said.
Now the event has been approved, the onus is being turned onto patrons to ensure their behaviour protects the race's future.
The Katherine Turf Club took to Facebook this week to outline their expectations.
"Social distancing is not a joke," Executive Committee member Tia Sollaway said.
"Extra security has been added to this event to cover us, to cover you to ensure this day will continue in the future.
"Please co-operate with them and remember they are just doing their job to ensure you all have a great day.
"I would like to reiterate the importance of this being a GLASS FREE EVENT.
"You are most welcome to bring food, Esky's - DO NOT be offended when they are checked.
"Please keep in mind that all this can be taken away from us quicker than it was given to us.
"Respect the day, respect yourselves, respect the work, and please have a great day," she said.
Tickets are now available online only through the Katherine Turf Club website, with a limit of five per transaction.
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