The Wybong community is preparing to welcome visitors across the Upper Hunter and beyond this weekend for the much-loved Wybong Mouse Races on Saturday 28 March 2026, in a powerful display of resilience following last year’s devastating hall fire.
On 24 November 2025, the community faced heartbreak when the iconic Wybong Hall was lost to a fire. For generations, it has been the heart of the community, hosting celebrations, fundraisers, and gatherings that brought family, friends, and the community together.
Despite the loss, the small but mighty community has rallied, with the 2nd Annual Mouse Races returning as a symbol of unity, strength, and hope as plans to rebuild begin.
Held at 420 Wybong PO Road, the event will run from 10am to 4pm, with the famous mouse races kicking off at 10:30am. The day will feature a vibrant mix of markets, live entertainment, food, family-friendly activities, fashions on the field and a pop-up wine bar, along with plenty of country hospitality.
Muswellbrook Shire Council is proud to support the event as a sponsor, recognising the key role of the Wybong Hall Committee and wider community play in the social fabric of the region.
Muswellbrook Shire Mayor Jeff Drayton said the return of the Mouse Races highlights the strength of the Wybong community.
“The Wybong Hall has always been the heart of this community, so its loss was deeply felt across our Shire. Seeing the community come together and continue this much-loved event shows the true spirit of Wybong,” Mayor Drayton said.
“Council is proud to support the Mouse Races and the Wybong Hall Committee as they look towards rebuilding and the future.”
Event organisers said the day celebrates the best of the region while supporting an important local community space.
“The Wybong Mouse Races is a family fun-filled day showcasing the beautiful Wybong Valley,” two organisers said.
“A mix of markets, music and mice draws people of all ages from the local area and beyond, highlighting local businesses through sponsorship and strengthening community relationships.”
“The event also provides an opportunity for people to support the Wybong Hall and assist with the ongoing maintenance of the hall premises.”
Muswellbrook Shire Councillor and passionate Wybong local with strong family ties to the area, Clare Bailey, said the event demonstrates the importance of local community groups.
“In communities like Wybong, groups like the hall committee are the backbone. They’re the ones who bring people together, create opportunities to connect, and keep that strong sense of community alive,” Cr Bailey said.
“Events like the Mouse Races show just how important those groups are, especially in times like this.”
The Mouse Races also provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a full Upper Hunter weekend, with Muswellbrook Cup on Friday, followed by the Wybong festivities on Saturday, and local wineries to explore on Sunday.
Entry is between $5 and $25, with the event welcoming people of all ages and abilities (contact organisers for accessibility details). Parking, including bus access, is available on site.
The Wybong Mouse Races 2026 is more than a day out – it is a celebration of community, connection, and resilience.
Event enquires:
Email: wybonghall@gmail.com
Phone: 0427 019 050
