About Our Club

The Calliope Jockey Club​, ​b​eing one of Queensland’s oldest race clubs​, ​i​s prepar​ing for their 111^th Gold Cup Race Meeting​ to be held on Saturday 9th May 2026. J.S Neill-Ballantine Park is known to be one of the most picturesque racecourses in Queensland, located just out of Calliope amongst the serine countryside.

The Calliope Jockey Club is run by a team of volunteers led by President Jim Neill-Ballantine who has chaired the Calliope Jockey Club for approximately 58 years. The committee is very passionate about creating a safe and fun day ​out for the entire family​ and wider community.  
The Track Manager, Bob Lisle, works tirelessly all year around to maintain the track which is why the track always looks amazing.

The Calliope Jockey Club's race days always bring the community together from near and far. It is a day that the community always looks forward to. ​
For a number of years, the Calliope Jockey Club has held their annual race day on Boxing Day, but the club has recently secured a new permanent annual race day to avoid the unpredictable stormy weather and the hustle and bustle that the festive season brings.
Starting in 2026, the Calliope Jockey Club's new annual race day will be held on the Saturday of Mother's Day weekend. The weather is very pleasant in May, and the event offers families a wonderful opportunity to extend their Mother's Day celebrations.
Special activities and treats for mothers will be available, making it a memorable day for everyone attending the races. Event highlights include Fashions on the Field with great prizes, 5 race program, a variety of delicious food for purchase, a bar will be open all day serving cocktail slushies, table bookings for groups, and a DJ playing your favourite tunes throughout the day. There will also be some fun novelty events planned plus more.
Further details will become available closer to the event. To keep updated please visit the club’s website www.callioperaces.com and follow them on facebook and Instagram.

The Calliope Jockey Club are always keen to invite new members to be a part of the team as they are always looking for new ideas to make their race days even better for the comm​unity.