Fashion at the annual Cooktown Races will look a little different this year, with a new Heritage Fashions on the Field category announced in celebration of the event’s 150th anniversary. Photo: Facebook.
While thoroughbred performances may have always been at the forefront, fashion has also been an integral element of the Cooktown Races during its century-and-a-half long history.
In celebration of the event’s evolution, the 150th Cooktown Races will have locals and visitors in the frocks of yesteryear with a new Heritage Fashions on the Field category when the barriers fly open on 9 November.
Antique lace, high-neck collars, wide-brimmed hats, and intricately embroidered parasols are expected to make appearances, transporting spectators back to the glamour and sophistication of bygone decades.
“As we celebrate 150 years of the Cooktown Races, it’s important to recognise how the fashion has evolved alongside this event,” event co-ordinator Katrina Lewis said.
“The Heritage Fashions on the Field category invites participants to showcase outfits inspired by the attire of past eras, from the elegant Victorian era dresses, to the bold and colourful styles of the mid-20th century.
“What about the swinging 60s … not to mention the hair in the 80s; we cannot wait to see who wears what on the day.”
Fashions on the Field assistant Jacinta McCosh said the Heritage category would be open-aged, and participants were encouraged to go all out in celebration of Cooktown’s rich racing culture.
“The Heritage Fashions on the Field category is not only a nod to the past, but also a celebration of the present creativity and community spirit that defines the Cooktown Amateur Race days,” she said.
“Participants of all ages are enthusiastically encouraged to take the opportunity to showcase their sartorial flair while paying tribute to the event’s enduring legacy.”
Cooktown History Centre worker Marjorie Scully said they were currently on the hunt for photos of historical race day outfits.
“It will be really wonderful to see how people embrace the Heritage fashion category,” she said.
“We encourage people to send in their historical fashion photos, so we can help provide ideas to those looking for inspiration with us at the Historical Society here in Cooktown.
“Each era has its own distinct style, and this competition allows the community to appreciate how fashion has reflected the social and cultural changes throughout the Cape’s history.”
