Albury Harness Racing Club hoping to attract 4000 plus on New Year's Eve

The meeting is regarded as the premier New Year's Eve attraction on the Border with some years more than 5000 patrons flocking to the Albury Showgrounds.

Last year's meeting was capped at 3000 under the 2 square metres rule applying to outdoor events under the current COVID-19 restrictions.

The club was thrown a curveball on the night after the Victorian government tightened restrictions at 5pm on New Year's Eve.

It announced a hard lockdown of the Border at midnight.

President Paul Brown said the only restrictions on Friday night were that patrons must pre-purchase their tickets and check in using the QR code.

Patrons must also adhere to social distancing rules.

"We got a crowd of 2800 last year and there was a bit of confusion surrounding the closure of the border," Brown said.

"This year patrons must pre-purchase tickets, use the QR code and practice social distancing rules.

"We are hoping to get a crowd of 4000.

"There is more free entertainment and rides for the kids than in previous years.

"We have got catering from the highly popular Lavington Lions Club but also a few other food vans which will give patrons more variety to choose from.

"It is going to be a really family friendly orientated night.

"The fireworks are still going ahead.

"It will be the first fireworks display by Airwize since New Year's Eve last year because of COVID."

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online via the www.humanitix.com website.

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Dine and Discover vouchers are redeemable.

Aged pensioners and disability concession holders will be able to claim back $10 off their ticket price, by presenting proof of their concession status to the acceptance office prior to 10pm.

No proof, no cash refund.

Kids entertainment will include dodgem cars, jumping castles, slides plus more.

There is an eight race card with five bookmakers, TAB and TAB mobile to accommodate punters who are keen for a flutter.

There will also be live music and ATM and EFTPOS facilities.

The night will culminate with the fireworks display at midnight.

Brown said ticket sales had been encouraging so far.

"We have sold 30 per cent more tickets than at the same time as last year which is a promising sign," he said.

"There is a rug presentation after every race from one of our sponsors.

"There will also be a presentation for the trainer and driver of the year."

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