550 VIPs from the racing, government, business and social scenes converged on the upgraded facilities for an exceedingly glamorous night.

The Theatre of the Horse: Movie horses played the greats at the opening

Opening with an arena performance in the Theatre of the Horse followed by a sit down alternate drop meal for 550 guests, the launch then transformed into the ultimate party on the third floor of the new grandstand.

Leading events producer Rizer led a team of 120 people to create the stand-out event.

Darren Pearce, the Chief executive Officer of the Australian Turf Club said: “The launch event was a momentous occasion, not just for Australia’s racing industry but for Sydney itself, and something that only happens once in many generations.

“We felt it was important to celebrate a facility that has been built with a vision for fifty years ahead, not only for race days, but also for any type of event, seven days a week.”

The VIP guest list included Rachel Griffiths, Tony Abbott’s daughters and the Waterhouse family.