Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival 2015

Watch the exciting preview for Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival 2015

History of the Cairns Amaterus Racing Carnival

At the time of the first Carnival, the Committee consisted of 10 people from the outback station properties and local businessmen who conducted 6 races on each day, “Sponsors” were not known as such at the time, but local businesses and regional branches of national companies either volunteered their services or were approached by the Committee to support the local Carnival. From the very start, the Carnival has been under Vice-Regal patronage, with then Governor Sir Henry Abel Smith beginning the tradition in 1959.

Jockeys were, as the Club name suggests, amateur riders and came mainly from stations in outback areas of the region. Professional riders weren’t present until many years later due to changes in racing regulations. The Club was disappointed by the mid-1990 ruling that amateur riders were no longer permitted to compete in Queensland race meetings, however the amateur tradition remains in spirit with the Club. In order to qualify, horses were required to be grass-fed and could not have raced in a professional meeting. A half-day holiday was even declared (somewhat audaciously, but well intended) by the Committee for the first Friday of races and some local businesses gave their staff the afternoon off to attend the Carnival.  The purse has increase substantially since its inception from 1,260 pounds to currently $389,000 over 15 races.   Now the Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival is on the National Calendar and many use the September event to plan a holiday to Tropical North Queensland.  

2015 Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival 

This multi award winning carnival is 'Must Do' for both locals and visitors alike!

This year there will be the same fabulous events and marquees at the Amateurs Cup Day, promising to be bigger and better.

Approximately 20,000 visitors attend the Carnival for the party weekend of the year including; fabulous fashion, entertainment and a sporting spectacular. 

General Admission:  Adults $30 *Pre purchase online $25 / Aged Pensioners $15 / Children (5-17yrs) $15 (must be accommpanied by an adult) Children under 5 yrs FREE 

Purchase Tickets :   Cairns Amateurs Racing Carnival 

Cairns Accommodation

If you want to make the most out of the day’s events, why not stay overnight or two in one of Cairns hotels or resorts?  We have a large range of hotels, apartments and tropical resorts to choose from.  The Carnival races are held at Cannon Park Racecourse which is only 10 minutes from the CBD.

Transport

It’s a busy few days in the city, so it is highly recommended that you pre-book your transport to and from the Cannon Park racecourse, to avoid waiting and very long queues post events!

If you are dressed in style why not travel in style? We can pre book your limousine, stretch Hummer or Helicopter.   The most amazing way to arrive at the racecourse would have to be by air!  Leaving from the heli pad at the Cairns Esplanade, glide above the city and mountains with great views out to the Great Barrier Reef, it will make your fun day even more special!  Ask us to secure your booking today!

Details on each event Click on the event below: 

FRIDAY 03 JULY - Cairns Amateurs Fashion Passport @ Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal, Trinity Wharf

THURSDAY 10 SEPT - Ladies Fashion High Tea @ Cannon Park Race Course

THURSDAY 10 SEPT - Reef Hotel Casino Presidents Welcome Cocktail Party @ Reef Hotel Casino, Roof Deck

FRIDAY 11 SEPT - Ladies Day  / Corporate Day @ Cannon Park Race Course

FRIDAY 11 SEPT - Cairns Amateurs Ball @ Shet 2, Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal

SATURDAY 12 SEPT - Cairns Amateurs Cup Day @ Cannon Park Race Course

SUNDAY 13 SEPT - Annual General Meeting @ Cannon Park Racecourse