History
One of the oldest clubs in Queensland, there has been racing in the Stanthorpe area since the 1872. This rich heritage comes from it's origins as a mining town - when almost everyone used horsepower as their means of transport, and the notion of gambling was an inherent part of prospecting.
Country racing has probably experienced more ups and downs over the years than any other sport, and the Stanthorpe club is no exception. In 1966, the club established a track at what was to become Armstrong park to the west of the town centre. This former Crown Land had been used as an emergency aerodrome in World War II.
A decade later, local solicitor Neil Sullivan, racing stalwart Jim Mann and local engineer Jack Armstrong invited Eagle Farm Racetrack Chief Steward, Steve Kelly to mark out the course. Doomben Racecourse supplied the original Bookmaker's stands and the Semaphore Board. Armstrong Park was born and was named after Jack Armstrong to recognise his tireless efforts for the club. It remains the site of the Stanthorpe Racetrack.
Many good horses have raced at Armstrong Park over the years. The most notable starter is "Panvale". He ran second at Armstrong Park and shortly after, won the Queen Elizabeth Stakes in Sydney in front of the Queen.