WHILE punters get excited at the prospect of putting on a bet and cheering on the horses, for many the highlight of the annual Cooktown Races is the hotly contested Fashions on the Field.
Organisers of the 148th annual Cooktown race meet are pulling out all the stops to make the fashions event bigger than ever, including two new categories, a new major sponsor, revamped event program and custom-made photo backdrop.
Co-organiser Katrina Lewis said she had put up her hand to help the committee for the love of the event.
“They are all so busy, so I put my hand up, and it should be a great event this year,” she said.
“It’s my first time organising, but with the help of Jacinta, Leeanne and Janne it is coming along.”
Ms Lewis said two new, fun categories this year encouraged punters to have a bit of a laugh.
“We have the best mo to raise awareness for Movember, and for a bit of fun, as well as the best shoe; there are no special rules, just whatever the judges think.
“It might be the highest shoe or the one that looks most like you won’t be wearing it at the end of the night!”
In addition to the fun categories, entrants will be vying for big prizes in the best-dressed sections for children, teens, local and visiting ladies and gents, as well as best millinery and couple of the day.
“The Seaview Motel has come on board this year as our major sponsor for Fashions on the Field and is providing great cash prizes as well as all our winners’ sashes,” said Ms Lewis, who will be joined by former fashions winner Sally Eales, as a guest judge.
Sally Eales will be a judge at the Cooktown Fashions on the Field.
Ms Eales said she had her outfit ready to go but was looking forward to being a judge rather than being judged.
“I always look forward to the Cooktown races, it’s a fun day out for locals and visitors and I enjoy being a part of the fashions,” she said.
“My tip for entrants would be to dress in appropriate race attire for the spring season, make sure you pay attention to detail and definitely wear a headpiece.
“But above all, be yourself, be creative, be classy and have fun.”
