And as many racegoers would know, it is possibly the biggest topic of discussion in the lead-up to the Bong Bong Picnic Races each year.

Sure there will be those discussions about what to wear, who to go with, where to set up and what horses are racing –but really the greatest unknown quantity is always the weather.

Those who have a long history of attending the special event at Wyeera race course will no doubt have many stories to tell about how the weather impacted their day at the track.

Hot westerly winds, pouring rain and even extremely cold conditions have all been experienced in the past – really the conditions of the day are anyone’s guess.

Well if there were bets taken on the weather at the 2017 Bong Bong Picnic Races there would have been a photo finish with a solid mix of both hot and humid conditions and then torrential rain, lightning and thunder and even hail. 

Yes, the 2017 race day had it all.

But the amazing reality of Bong Bong Picnic Races is that regardless of the weather conditions the popular annual Highlands attraction always seems to be a hit.

Not even the cancellation of the final two races - as was the case this year– seems to dampen the spirits of the race day crowd.

And one of the cancelled races was the main event of the day the Bong Bong Cup.

The weather may always be the unknown quantity but one thing that never seems to change is that Bong Bong racegoers – for the most part – revel in what is a key event on the Southern Highlands social calendar. 

There is little doubt that those who attend the Bong Bong Picnic Races have a certain resilience.

Rain, hail or shine – all of which turned up in 2017 -they get out and have a great time at the race that stops the Highlands each year in November.

Although it would be difficult not to enjoy this day with the event so well organised.

From great traffic control and parking areas; plenty of attractions such as the opening parade, fashion in the fields, the light horsemen and of course the races; and impressive crowd control with a very visual presence of police and other security – this popular event is meticulously planned to succeed in any conditions.

Well done to the hard working organisers of this event for yet another memorable day.