The Strathalbyn Harness Racing Club was formed in 1938 after purchasing a block of 18 acres on Milne Rd. The secretary Mr. A.L.Grubb advised that the S.A.Trotting League approved the new license on the 24th August 1938 and the Inaugural meeting was held on the 4th October 1938 with total stake money of 150 pounds. Local wood merchant Frank Thring was the first president. The committee picked out the best and straightest wood to make into running rails.