Who needs the little white wedding chapel when the Cranbourne Harness Racing Club is offering up its committee room on a Saturday night?
Guests for Wayne Thornton’s 60th birthday bash at the weekend had a night at the trots like no other, eventually finding out the shindig was actually to be his wedding to fiancée Monika.
“The staff were amazing. They kept it a secret because it was to be a surprise. I can’t speak highly enough of everyone involved at the club,” Wayne said.
The happy couple had planned the night for about three months, even securing the services of celebrity celebrant Greg Evans – famous for hosting TV show Perfect Match.
“My wife said, ‘If we’re going to get married we should get Greg’,” Wayne explained.
“He was so much fun – very laidback, which was just what we were after.”
The idea came about after Wayne’s sons bought him a mobile barrier ride at the club via a Red Balloon promotion.
“I’ve always been a racing fan in general,” Wayne said.
“The mobile barrier ride was great. The club actually gave us a couple more, so my son and son-in-law both got a go. I couldn’t believe how the horses nudged the gate at the start. The starter was terrific explaining things and the driver was fantastic, too.”
Wayne said his guests were shocked when it came time for the ceremony.
“A few of the girls said they thought they knew it but no everyone was yelling and screaming.
“We’ll definitely be coming back to the trots.
“It’s a great place since they’ve done it up. It was just superb. Even the bar staff, I can’t thank the club enough.”
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing
