Legendary Port Douglas Calcutta returns to The Surfy
LOCAL TRADITION
A beloved social highlight for over 20 years, the Port Douglas Calcutta returns this Melbourne Cup Eve at The Surfy, marking its revival by locals after a brief hiatus.
The event, which paused during the COVID years, has been brought back thanks to the efforts of a dedicated group of community members.
This event was a highlight on the social calendar for more than 20 years, and held on Melbourne Cup Eve, it’s the perfect precursor to the many Cup Day functions.”
“This event is a wonderful way for the community to come together while supporting local causes,” he added.
“This year, we are especially proud to be supporting the Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club.
“The P.D.S.L.S.C. does incredible work providing lifesaving skills and safety patrols along our beaches, and their Nippers program trains the next generation of Douglas Shire lifesavers through fun activities, training, and competition.”
Raffle and Calcutta Draw
Raffle tickets are now available for booklet purchases and will go on sale at venues in the coming weeks.
Each ticket gives participants the chance to secure a horse running in the Melbourne Cup field and a chance to win the Mega Raffle.
Local businesses have donated prizes including golf at the Mirage Country Club valued at $200.00, wine from LG Wine & Liquor, and framed prints from Perrin Clarke Photography valued at $395.00 ea.
All proceeds from ticket sales go into the overall Calcutta prize pool.
On the Monday night, the 24 horses will be drawn from the barrel and allocated to their lucky owners. A live auction follows, with each horse sold to the highest bidder.
Drawn owners receive half the selling price, and if they choose to purchase their horse, they only pay half the auction price. The remaining proceeds add to the total prize pool.
When the race is run, first place collects 40% of the prize pool, second 20%, third 10%, and last 5%, with the remaining 25% donated to the P.D.S.L.S.C.
The 2025 Calcutta kicks off at 5pm on Monday, 3 November, at The Surfy. The bar and kitchen will be open for refreshments, and the Mega Raffle will be drawn mid-auction.
If you cannot attend, your horse sale proceeds will be kept for collection after the event.
Tickets are $2.50 each, available on the night or in the weeks leading up to the event. To secure pre-event tickets or booklets, email Callum Jones at [email protected] or call 0437 981 195.
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