Australia’s largest purpose-built thoroughbred racing precinct, including a luxury five-star hotel and event centre, has opened its doors at Warwick Farm in Sydney’s south-west.

Riverside Stables includes 823 stables, a 144-room William Inglis Sofitel Hotel with suites named after champion racehorses, restaurants, cafés and a unique ringside bar where people can dine and inspect the thoroughbreds.

Ray decided to broadcast his show from the precinct ahead of the Easter yearling sales to get a proper look at the incredible development.

Inglis Managing Director Mark Webster says the 10 hectare site will open up Sydney’s south-west to endless opportunities.

“We’re only selling horses for 10% of the year so this place has to be busy for the rest of the year.

“Conferencing weddings, bar mitzvahs, special birthdays, kids birthday parties, school formals.”

Ray spent a night in the hotel, saying it was “the best hotel that I’ve stayed at in my history as a broadcaster”.

Ray also admitted he wanted to pinch one of the comfy ‘cuddle pillows’.

Mark, “I can get one for you.”

“It’s no longer cash for comment, it’s pillows for comment,” Ray laughed

Click PLAY below for the full chat

Ray also spoke with racing legend John Messara, former Chairman of Racing NSW, now Chairman of the Arrowfield Stud.

He tells Ray it’s a “fantastic development”.

“It’s worked out wonderfully. Everybody’s very happy here.”

Click PLAY below for the full interview