The Garrards Horse and Hound “Young Guns” Series returns as part of this year’s New Year’s Eve Party at Melton Entertainment Park – a huge night of harness racing, family entertainment and fireworks that regularly attracts close to 10,000 people trackside.

The top 10 under-25 Victorian-licensed drivers, ranked on season wins, are now locked in for the 2025 edition and ready to battle it out across the entire race card. A sliding points system will again determine the overall champion, with 2023 inaugural winner Ryan Sanderson back to defend his crown.

The stakes have never been higher. Thanks to Garrards Horse & Hound, the Young Guns champion will secure a money-can’t-buy trip to the United States, featuring an exclusive training and racing immersion with New York powerhouse Shane and Lauren Tritton. Be on track early for the red-carpet driver presentation prior to Race One, where fans can celebrate the drivers and score plenty of giveaways.

Melton Entertainment Park will be buzzing throughout the night with free kids rides, face painting, a DJ on the lawn, food trucks, dining options, live music and a spectacular midnight fireworks display. A gold-coin donation on entry will support local charities.

For those celebrating at home, full coverage will be available on Sky Racing, Sky Racing Active and TrotsVision.