By Georgina Cooke
A Merrylands man accused of carrying a sawn-off shotgun outside Saturday's Golden Slipper Stakes event will remain behind bars.
Representing himself, Kelly Stratton, 39, appeared at Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday and did not apply for bail, which was formally refused.
The case was adjourned until Tuesday.
Rosehill Local Area Command duty officer Dan Richardson said there was no evidence to suggest Mr Stratton was on his way to, or leaving, Rosehill Gardens Racecourse.
Police say there was no evidence that the man was on his way to Rosehill Gardens Racecourse.Credit: bradleyphotos.com.au
Thousands flocked to the area at the weekend to attend the world's richest juvenile race, worth $3.5 million, which was taken out by Scott Darby and Mark Holland's $20,000 yearling purchase She Will Reign.
The Australian Turf Club in a statement on Sunday added that it had also been informed by senior police that there was no suggestion the "alleged offender was targeting the Golden Slipper, or its patrons".
It is understood Mr Stratton was stopped at 5.15pm after being seen behaving suspiciously on Hassall Street.
"Police suspected he was involved in some form of drug activity," Mr Richardson said.
When police went to search his backpack, Mr Stratton allegedly tried to run away.
Upon being searched, police alleged they found the loaded sawn-off shotgun, along with more ammunition, a mask and gloves.
Mr Stratton was charged with nine offences including possession of a shortened firearm, being armed with intent, possession of a prescribed restricted substance and police assault.
With AAP