Fresh format Cairns Super Carnival gears up for nine days of racing fun
REVAMPED CUP
BUSINESS FEATURE
This year, the Cairns Carnival Cup - Far North Queensland’s biggest horse racing event - returns bigger than ever as part of an exciting nine-day celebration of racing, fashion, and entertainment from 15 to 23 August at Cannon Park.
The carnival brings together two of the region’s most iconic events, the Red Beret Hotel Cairns Cup and the Cairns Amateur Cup, into one blockbuster festival: the Great Northern Brewing Co Cairns Super Carnival.
For the first time, the expanded format features three official race days across two weekends, allowing more time for visitors and locals to experience the best of the Far North on and off the track.
Racing kicks off on Saturday 16 August with a nationally broadcast 8-race program featuring marquee events like the Cairns Amateur Cup and Lightning Hcp.
The action continues on Friday 22 August with Ladbrokes Newmarket Day, followed by the highly anticipated Red Beret Hotel Cairns Cup Day on Saturday 23 August, each offering a full day of top-tier racing.
But it’s not just about the racing.
A full social calendar includes the Super Carnival Launch, Live Barrier Draw, and the High Tea Party, which this year returns as a feature trackside event on race day, blending fashion and hospitality into a glamorous race-day affair.
Cairns Jockey Club President Tom Hedley said the newly merged event is the result of months of collaboration with Racing Queensland.
"This is more than just a racing carnival; it's an opportunity to celebrate the heritage, culture, and vibrant community spirit of the region.”
A star-studded luncheon
A highlight of the Carnivale, the Ladbrokes Sportsman’s Luncheon will take place on Thursday 21 August, featuring racing legends Glen Boss and Robbie Dolan.
Guests can expect an afternoon of stories, insights, and laughs with Boss, the three-time Melbourne Cup winner, and 2024 Cup champion Dolan, who also charmed the nation as a contestant on The Voice.
Boss, famous for his historic run with Makybe Diva, said he’s thrilled to be part of the event.
“It’s always exciting to meet fans and celebrate the sport I love,” Boss said. “Events like this really showcase the heart of grassroots racing and regional Australia.”
Dolan, who stunned the racing world with his win aboard $91 outsider Knight’s Choice, may even treat guests to a surprise performance, blending his passion for racing with his unexpected musical talent.
For more information, visit the Cairns Jockey Club website or follow them on social media.
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