Newcastle Racecourse is transforming into a country spectacular on Saturday in a bid to raise $100,000 to help Hunter farmers feed their hungry cattle after many months of battling the most crippling drought in decades. 

In a quirky twist 2006 Sydney Cup Champion County Tyrone’s manure will be used to help bolster donations. 

County Tyrone will walk around a 100 square grass-painted grid until he drops his manure. Patrons will pay $100 for the chance to own a square in County’s Bounty and the owner of the plot that cops the fertiliser will win $2000. The rest of the money will go straight to Buy A Bale Hunter. 

“Hunter farmers are still seriously hurting because of the drought and both the Newcastle Jockey Club and thoroughbred racing in general is passionate about doing what we can to help,” club CEO Matt Benson said. 

“This is a cause that’s close to our hearts because of how tough water supplies have been here too -  and we’re looking forward to doing our bit to help out as a tightly-knit racing community and very near neighbour.”

There will be a petting zoo for the kids with lots of cute animals, a mechanical bull for those looking for a fun challenge, a jumping castle and face painting.

A live country music line up will provide some toe-tapping tunes along with a heat of the Buy A Bale Rising Talent Country Music competition.

The Easter Bunny will also make an appearance. 

Then, of course, there is all the action trackside with the $150,000 Polytrack Provincial Championships Qualifier providing hours of entertainment. 

Rural Aid CEO Charles Alder praised the club for supporting the Hunter’s agriculture industry.

If the club reaches its $100,000 target 900 bales of hay will be delivered to the region’s farms. 

The state government is footing the transport bill – thanks to a provision about community donated fodder in its drought package – which helps make the donations go further. 

“There is some relief because of the rain but the message is still hard and fast – keep the trucks coming,” Mr Alder said. 

“It’s important that the jockey club has taken a leadership position among the business community and some of these larger companies in Newcastle to put it on the radar. 

Gates open at 12 noon.

The usual fee to enter the racecourse has been waived in lieu of a gold coin donation to Buy A Bale Hunter. Donate: buyabale.com.au/hunter