Julia Creek trainer Tanya Parry is gearing up for a massive day of racing when she heads to Mount Isa on Tuesday with a huge team of starters.

Just months after his 70th birthday, respected North West hoop Keith Ballard is still going as strong as ever.

City-level jockey Brooke Stower will on Saturday become a welcome addition to the North West Queensland riding ranks and those in the local area are optimistic of seeing more of the hoop at the races.

Spare a thought for veteran Julia Creek trainer Tanya Parry ahead of a massive weekend for her stable.