Entertainment
15 August, 2025
High fashion at super carnival
FROM high fashion, launch parties, racing royalty and celebrity guests, to all of the action of three race days rolled into nine days, the Cairns Super Carnival kicks off tonight with the carnival launch party at the Reef Hotel Casino.
Carnival sponsors Great Northern Brewing Co and the Cairns Jockey Club (CJC) are promising this year’s event will be huge.
Tomorrow, August 16, the excitement begins at Cannon Park with the Amateurs Cup Day — the first of three race days.
In response to feedback, racegoers will enjoy significant upgrades to general admission areas with the addition of the Ladbrokes public pavilion and a large, shaded trackside marquee on the home straight.
“These improvements ensure more comfort, shade and seating for all racegoers, with access to live music, bars, food trucks and entertainment included in every general admission ticket,” CJC general manager Cameron Riches said.
Tropical elegance will be the theme for the Amateurs’ Fashions on the Field organised by Cairns Central.
And when the day is done, an after party will feature Australian country DJ Dee Jaye Bux to be held at the track’s mounting yard.
On Wednesday, the mounting yard will also be the scene for the Cairns Cup barrier draw. The community is invited to this free event, which offers fans and families a behind-the-scenes insight into the lead-up to the region’s biggest race and an opportunity to mingle with racing personalities and industry figures.
Another exciting highlight this year will be the sportsman’s lunch and calcutta which takes place on Thursday.
Hosted by Ladbrokes’ Nick Quinn, guests will hear from Glen Boss, the celebrated jockey who rode Makybe Diva to win three Melbourne Cups from 2003 to 2005.
The glamour of Ladies Day lights up Friday, with the feature race being the $100,000 Ladbrokes Cairns Newmarket Handicap.
The carnival winds up on Saturday, August 23 with the running of the $150,000 Cairns Cup, sponsored by Red Beret Hotel.
General admission guests will also gain access to the carnival afterparty with DJ Konksy.
Tickets for the super carnival are on sale at https://bit.ly/45OzcuI
