Racecourse, Queensland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids RacecourseMackay, Queensland |
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 Racecourse
Location in Queensland
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| Population | 181 (2021 census) | ||||||||||||||
| • Density | 21.55/km2 (55.8/sq mi) | ||||||||||||||
| Postcode(s) | 4740 | ||||||||||||||
| Area | 8.4 km2 (3.2 sq mi) | ||||||||||||||
| Time zone | AEST (UTC+10:00) | ||||||||||||||
| Location |
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| LGA(s) | Mackay Region | ||||||||||||||
| State electorate(s) | Mirani | ||||||||||||||
| Federal Division(s) | Capricornia | ||||||||||||||
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Racecourse is a small suburb located to the west of Mackay in Queensland, Australia. It's part of the wider Mackay Region. In 2021 census, about 181 people lived in Racecourse.
Contents
What is Racecourse Like?
Racecourse is known for its flat land and connection to the sugar industry.
Where is Racecourse Located?
The northern edge of Racecourse follows a small part of the Pioneer River. The eastern side is mostly next to the North Coast railway line. This railway helps connect the area to other parts of Queensland.
How is the Land Used?
Most of the land in Racecourse is used for growing sugar cane. This is a very important crop in the Mackay region. After the sugar cane is harvested, it's moved using special small railways called cane tramways. These tramways carry the cane to the local Racecourse Sugar Mill (21°09′47″S 149°08′05″E / 21.1631°S 149.1346°E). At the mill, the sugar cane is processed to make sugar.
A Quick Look at History
The name "Racecourse" comes from a horse racing track.
How Racecourse Got Its Name
The suburb is named after the Mackay Racecourse. This racecourse was set up by the Mackay Turf Club way back in 1867. It was originally located where the Peak Downs Highway and Broadsound Road meet. Today, this area is part of the nearby suburb of Ooralea and the racecourse is now called Ooralea Racecourse.
Who Lives in Racecourse?
The number of people living in Racecourse has changed a bit over the years.
Population Changes Over Time
- In 2011 census, there were 242 people living in Racecourse.
- By 2016 census, the population was 184 people.
- In the most recent 2021 census count, 181 people called Racecourse home.
Important Old Buildings
Racecourse has one special building that is listed for its historical importance.
Selwyn House
One of the heritage-listed places in Racecourse is Selwyn House. You can find it on Cowleys Road. Heritage listings mean these places are protected because they are important to the area's history.
Schools Near Racecourse
There are no schools directly in Racecourse itself. However, students can easily go to schools in nearby suburbs.
Primary Schools Nearby
For younger students, the closest government primary schools are:
- Mackay West State School, located in the neighbouring suburb of West Mackay.
- Dundula State School, found in the nearby suburb of Bakers Creek.
Secondary Schools Nearby
For high school students, the nearest government secondary school is Mackay State High School. This school is located in South Mackay, which is just to the east of Racecourse.
