Hopkins was awarded the 2016-17 Australian Track Manager of the Year for Regional Racing Clubs at the national award ceremony held in New Zealand on Thursday night.

This is the second time that Hopkins has been awarded the honour, making him the only two-time recipient.

He previously won the award in 2005.

Hopkins has been the BJC’s track manager for more than 17 years.

BJC chief executive officer Aaron Hearps said the win was testament to his standing as one of the country’s premier track managers.

 “It is great for Bernie to receive the acknowledgment he so richly deserves,” he said.

“Bernie’s contribution to our club and indeed the racing industry has been immense over an extended period of time now and it gives us great satisfaction that our track manger is the best in the business.”

Racing Victoria tracks and facilities manager James Cataldo said the course proper at Bendigo was widely considered one of the best racing surfaces in our state.

“This is due to Bernie’s dedication, professionalism and the experience he has gained throughout his career,” he said.

The awards have been conducted since 1999 and are judged by the Australian Racecourse Managers Association, comprising an experienced selection panel.

It has been a great 12 months of acknowledgement for the Bendigo Racecourse following on from the invitation by Lloyd Williams for Hopkins and his team to celebrate the 2016 Melbourne Cup win of Almandin with the Williams family and connections, after the stayer used Bendigo’s facilities for much of his training leading up to the first Tuesday in November.

“It’s been quite a hectic year of events here in Bendigo and it’s a great honour and privilege to accept this award,” Hopkins said.

“We have a great team here at the club and with the installation of our big screen before Beach Party and Jayco Bendigo Cup race days, there is a lot to be excited about over the coming months as spring quickly approaches.”