A SLIGHT chance of rain couldn't keep punters away from the Mt Perry races at the weekend, with more than 1000 turning out for the annual event.

Mt Perry Race Club secretary Joy Jensen said it was the best crowd they'd ever had.

"Country racing is important to this community," she said.

Mrs Jensen said many people came from out of town, which is wonderful for a little town like Mt Perry.

"We really hit the mark with grey nomads and travellers this year. We had an area set aside for campers and it was full.

"People have come and made a full weekend of it."

She said the race club aimed to make the race day a great family day out, and this year had a jumping castle and train rides for the kids for the first time.

"We had a large turn out for the fashion on the fields - the best we've ever had."

Mrs Jensen said the racing was excellent, and the two rain interruptions didn't interfere with the track.

The final race of the day was one which is unique to Mt Perry - the Jocks Plate.

Mrs Jensen said it started in 1998 and has grown in popularity ever since.

"It's hotly contested - especially with some of the young blokes who can sprint."

"It's a bit of fun, nothing untoward."

Mrs Jensen said planning for next year's event was already underway.

"Every year we are making improvements, lifting our game - it's always a battle to put on an event like this in a small community."