THE organisers of the annual Roma Picnic Races say the recent rain across the Maranoa will bode for next weekend's event.

"The town and grounds at Bassett Park are looking a treat and everyone is feeling relaxed and refreshed after the rain,” Roma Picnic Race Club president Scott Arthur said.

"The weather is forecast to be fine for the ball on the Friday night and the races on Saturday so we're hoping lots of locals come and enjoy a great weekend in Roma.”

The highlights of the weekend include the Black Toyota Black Tie Ball on the Friday night, an exciting five race program on the Saturday, the Warners Fine Jewellery Fashions on the Field, the CJ Advisory Art and Tea.

More than $7000 in prizes will be up for grabs in the Fashions on the Field, with nominations to be taken from noon ahead of judging from 3pm.

Also back by popular demand will be the Carlton and United Breweries Schooner Suit Races, a competition which sees men and women dash 100 meters wearing a Carlton schooner suit and carrying a schooner of beer.

Carlton and United Breweries' Matt Turner, said the fun event never failed to inject some larrikin into a sophisticated race meeting.

"This was a really fun way to end the Roma Picnics last year and I'm sure it will be popular again,” he said.