Sport
17 November, 2025
Millions spent on cup fashion stakes
A STAGGERING $2 million-plus was spent on fashion and grooming by participants at the first Cairns Super Carnival this year.
Figures released by the Cairns Jockey Club show $2.2m was splashed out on hats/fascinators (1781 items) dresses (1756), shoes (1323), handbags (865) and jewellery (814) by 10,229 people.
The nine-day carnival incorporating Cairns Amateurs and the Cairns Cup and generated $7.33m for the Cairns regional economy from 15-23 August.
According to independent data, the carnival generated $4.65m in direct and incremental expenditure for the Cairns region and $5.44m across Queensland.
Visitor analysis showed that 6310 individuals attended across the Carnival period.
Overnight visitor expenditure reached $3.71m, with 10,485 total visitor nights, the majority from interstate visitors (6719).
Jockey club general manager Cameron Riches said the carnival exceeded expectations, “showcasing the energy, vibrancy and pride of our region”.
“It’s more than a racing event, it’s a celebration that brings our community together while delivering significant economic returns for local businesses,” he said.
Mr Riches said racegoers embraced the carnival’s flair for fashion, with hats, fascinators, dresses and accessories dominating the style stakes.
The event generated strong engagement with local retailers, designers and service providers, reinforcing its role as a vital contributor to the Cairns creative economy, he said.
“Fashion and glamour are at the heart of the carnival experience.
“Each year, we see an incredible turnout of locals and visitors dressing to impress. Beyond the track, this translates into valuable support for Cairns’ boutiques, hospitality and accommodation sectors.”
Mr Riches said that, based on feedback from attendees, the club was already working on enhancing the experience for future carnivals.
“We’re focused on improving the experience each and every year, with new hospitality options being designed, while also keeping some of the fan favourites that make the event so special,” he said.
Next year the carnival will run from Friday 21 August to Saturday 29 August.
Program highlights:
Great Northern Brewing Co. Cairns Super Carnival launch – Friday 21 August
Great Northern Brewing Co. Cairns Amateurs Cup Day – Saturday 22 August
Ladbrokes sportsman lunch and calcutta – Thursday 27 August
Ladbrokes Cairns Newmarket Ladies Day – Friday 28 August
Red Beret Hotel Cairns Cup – Saturday 29 August.
