With table and chair packages sold out and the weather gods shining down on organisers, Tumut Turf Club expects a massive crowd for Saturday’s annual Derby Day meeting.
Tumut Racecourse is in great condition and rated a good four ahead of Saturday’s meeting.
On the day, complementing the five-race non-TAB meeting, Miss Mikaila will provide entertainment, and there will be food and bar facilities, bookmakers, and, of course, excellent country racing.
Event coordinator Siana Lucas has been especially busy organising packages, entertainment, and fashions on the field, which are sponsored by local café Whisk and Dish.
“It’s so exciting, and I’m bursting with excitement,” Mrs Lucas said.
“With over 220 bookings, which is unheard of for Derby Day, it will be big. Plus, the good weather is a factor, so we’re expecting a massive crowd.
“We also have many people coming in from out of town, which is great for the club and the local community.”
Mrs Lucas also announced the 2024/25 season ambassadors – incoming Snowy Valleys Councillor and renowned local musician Andrew Wortes, who will be accompanied by recent Top Model Australia winner Keely Wickman.
“It’s great to have Andrew and Keely locked in as our ambassadors,” Mrs Lucas said.
“It will attract that new demographic of racegoers via their friends and family, giving us that important exposure.”
On the day, Melissa Hayward, Emma Quinn, and Keely Wickman will judge the hotly anticipated fashions on the field.
Ms Hayward said Derby Day is always a monochrome affair, with fashionistas expected to be in black, grey and white.
“Those racegoers wanting to win the Whisk and Dish fashions on the field must deliver a masterclass in black and white dressing and do so with aplomb, playing with texture and proportion to maximise the impact of their two-tone looks,” Ms Hayward said.
“Being spring, we want to see seasonally appropriate and well-fitted attire, with accessories, shoes, and headpieces combined elegantly.
“The main requirement, though, is to have fun and enjoy yourself when being judged.”
The categories are best-dressed lady, best-dressed gent, best-dressed couple, best-dressed filly, and best-dressed junior.
FOTF guidelines
– Style and originality
– Concept of design co-ordination
– Standard and appropriateness for the individual, climate and season
– Attention to detail with accessorising
– Spring millinery
– Overall grooming and deportment
On the day, tickets will be available at the gates, which open at noon.
Readers are encouraged to follow the Tumut Turf Club socials for more information.
