Adelaide Hosts a Memorable ARMA Conference

The 2026 Evergreen Turf Australian Racecourse Managers Association (ARMA) Conference has been hailed a tremendous success, bringing together more than 200 delegates and 41 sponsors for four memorable days in Adelaide.

Across seven events, the Conference once again demonstrated the strength of the racecourse management community, combining education, networking, industry recognition and plenty of opportunities to catch up with colleagues and friends from across Australia, New Zealand and further abroad.

The week began on Wednesday evening with the Welcome Drinks at Molly’s, where a huge turnout set the tone for the days ahead. The relaxed evening provided the perfect opportunity for returning delegates to reunite, while welcoming plenty of first-time attendees into the ARMA network.

Thursday and Friday featured a packed Conference program at Morphettville Racecourse, with presentations covering racecourse management, leadership, innovation, international racing and the many challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Among the highlights were guest speakers Nathan Bolton and Katrina Webb, who shared powerful insights from their respective experiences, while international presentations from the Hong Kong Jockey Club and Dubai Racing Club provided delegates with a fascinating look behind the scenes at two of the world’s leading racing operations.

Friday afternoon delivered another memorable experience, with delegates travelling to Adelaide Oval for the opportunity to walk the hallowed turf and learn more about the management and operation of one of Australia’s most iconic sporting venues.

Thursday night’s ARMA Awards Dinner was another major highlight, recognising outstanding individuals from throughout the racecourse management industry.

Liam O’Keeffe (Victoria Racing Club) was crowned Metro Racecourse Manager of the Year, recognising his outstanding leadership, professionalism and contribution to the preparation and management of one of Australia’s premier racing venues. Sean Tou (Ipswich Turf Club) received the Regional Racecourse Manager of the Year award, acknowledging his dedication, innovation and consistently high standards in racecourse management within regional racing.

For the first time, the Toro Australia Industry Services Award was presented jointly, with John Tonani and Steve Andrews unable to be separated. Both have made an enormous contribution to the racing and turf industries over many years, generously sharing their knowledge and experience while supporting racecourse managers, staff and the wider industry throughout their careers.

Scott Mackinnon from the Sunshine Coast Turf Club received the coveted Steriline Racing Award, recognising his commitment to the industry and providing him with an outstanding international professional development opportunity. As the 2026 recipient, Scott will travel to Hong Kong and China, gaining first-hand exposure to the facilities, practices and operations of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, including its world-class racecourses and training operations.

Connor Macey (Tuncurry Foster Jockey Club) and Mitch Hewson (Brisbane Racing Club) were selected for the inaugural Greenway Turf Solutions & ATC Autumn Internship. The internship will provide both recipients with valuable hands-on experience alongside the Australian Turf Club track teams during the busy Sydney autumn racing period, giving them exposure to the preparation and management of major metropolitan racecourses and some of Australia's biggest race meetings.

Elysha Wright-Newman (Oakbank Racing Club) and Kane Smith (Otaki-Maori Racing Club - New Zealand) were announced as recipients of the Evergreen Turf & VRC Spring Internships. They will have the opportunity to spend time with the Victoria Racing Club track team at Flemington during the spring, gaining invaluable experience in the preparation and presentation of the racecourse during one of the most demanding and prestigious periods on the Australian racing calendar.

Together, the five recipients represent the next generation of Racecourse Managers, with the programs designed to broaden their experience, build industry connections and provide exposure to racecourse operations at the highest level.

After a busy few days, around 120 delegates and guests returned to Morphettville on Saturday for the final event of the Conference – an afternoon at the races.

With great food, great racing and even better company, it was a fitting way to conclude an outstanding week and provided one last opportunity to enjoy the friendships and connections that make the ARMA Conference such an important event on the industry calendar.

ARMA sincerely thanks Evergreen Turf, our 41 valued sponsors, presenters, exhibitors, delegates and everyone who contributed to making the 2026 Conference possible.

Most importantly, thank you to the racecourse managers and industry professionals who travelled from across Australia, New Zealand and overseas to be part of the week. The continued growth of the Conference reflects the strength of the ARMA network and the willingness of our industry to share knowledge, support one another and continue moving racecourse management forward.

We look forward to doing it all again in Perth in 2027.