The Bendigo Cup is possibly the most iconic event on the Bendigo social calendar. 

I grew up not far from the Bendigo Jockey Club. On a clear day, you could hear the call of a race. And like many local school kids, I’ve run around the race track as part of cross country, a tradition that I also share with my kids.

As an adult, I’ve dressed up and enjoyed a public holiday at the races with friends many times.

This year, I have the honour of being ambassador of the Apiam Bendigo Cup, Wednesday 1 November. It’s given me a behind the scenes look at the races, and the opportunity to meet some of the incredible women in the industry.

I recently sat down with local trainer Jess Gleeson, Bendigo Jockey Club Commercial Manager Sue Opie, and former jockey and now clerk of scales Courtney Pace.

Jess moved from Ireland to Australia and speaks about the difference between the two countries, how she managed her pregnancy while being a trainer, and what she really wanted to be when she grew up. 

Sue gives us an insight into her early career as a business woman in Greece as the owner of a bar/nightclub/internet cafe, and the skills needed for successful partnerships. 

And Courtney shares her passion for the racing industry which she has been involved in at 14 years of age, and what it takes to be a female jockey.

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This episode was hosted by Kimberley Furness, founder + editor of OAK Magazine. We are a proudly independent media publisher dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying voices of female change makers and women in business in regional and rural Australia. OAK is an award winning community ecosystem of print, digital, audio and events. We have demonstrated outstanding quality, innovation and impact through our print magazine, podcasts and audio version of OAK Magazine. OAK is where you will find in-depth chats and courageous conversations with women in business from regional and rural Australia.

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