This is the second successive year the MNC heat has been run in Taree, following on the phenomenal success of the 2016 event.

The heat will be the fourth in the qualifying series and is restricted to Mid North Coast stables. Taree’s Bob Milligan was successful last year with Another Valley.

Trainers will be looking to earn a start in the $400,000 Country final on Doncaster Day, Saturday April 1 at Randwick.

Overall the Showcase meeting will carry $370,000 in prizemoney, up $50,000 on last year. All support races on the program will be worth $30,000.

Last year’s meeting attracted a crowd of around 3000 and race club chairman Greg Coleman is hoping for a similar response this year.

He expects a full field of 14 will contest the main race.

The club will support the Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle at the meeting. 

“There’s usually at least two families from the Manning/Great Lakes area using the facilities at Ronald McDonald House at any given time,’’ Mr Coleman said.

“It’s a pleasure to assist the organisation.’’

The club will ask for a gold coin donation from spectators as the enter the course-proper and all proceeds will go to Ronald McDonald House. 

Ronald McDonald House merchandise will also be for sale.

Mr Coleman said the club wants the meeting to be family orientated and as such he said there’ll be plenty of entertainment for children.

"We want people to get out to the track and enjoy themselves. Last year was a fantastic success and we’re looking to repeat that. We have the big screen operational at and that’s another bonus.’’

He said the club is making plans for the trophies for the main race to be parachuted in during the afternoon, while racegoers have the opportunity to win passes to day one of The Championships in Randwick on Saturday April 1. Courtesy buses will run with pick-up points at Wingham, Harrington, Old Bar, Forster-Tuncurry, Gloucester and Port Macquarie.