Spring Racing Carnival set to deliver two unmissable days of racing, fashion & festivities

    Spring Racing Carnival

    Newcastle Racecourse is rolling out the red carpet this September for two of the most anticipated events on the city’s social and sporting calendar, the Sharp Office Newcastle Gold Cup Race Day and Ladies Day, Spring Racing Carnival.

    Set across two back-to-back days, these events will bring together elite thoroughbred racing, incredible entertainment, and the glamour and style Newcastle is famous for. Whether you’re trackside for the thrill of the races, front-row at Fashions on the Field, or indulging in premium hospitality, the atmosphere promises to be nothing short of electric.

    FRIDAY 19 SEPTEMBER | SHARP OFFICE NEWCASTLE GOLD CUP RACE DAY

    Kicking off the Spring Racing Carnival in style, the Sharp Office Newcastle Gold Cup Race Day will see Australia’s top trainers, jockeys, and thoroughbreds descend on the track for one of the state’s most prestigious provincial meetings.

    The day’s racing program features three Group 3 events:

    • $300,000 Sharp Office Newcastle Gold Cup (2300m) – a key lead-up to the major spring staying races
    • $250,000 NZB Tibbie Stakes (1400m) – showcasing some of the country’s most talented fillies and mares
    • $250,000 Local Search Cameron Handicap (1500m) – a critical spring pathway race.

    Beyond the racing, the Gold Cup is Newcastle’s ultimate spring social day, perfect for networking, entertaining clients, or celebrating with friends. Attendees can choose from a variety of premium hospitality packages, including trackside marquees, corporate suites, and stylish lounge experiences, all featuring gourmet catering and premium beverages.

    With live entertainment between races, on-course activations, and the city buzzing with spring energy, Gold Cup Day is the perfect prelude to the style and spectacle of Ladies Day.
    CEO Duane Dowell said:

    “The Sharp Office Newcastle Gold Cup Race Day is a cornerstone of our racing calendar, bringing the very best horses, trainers, and jockeys to our track. It’s more than a race day; it’s a celebration of Newcastle’s vibrant community and racing heritage. We’re proud to host such an iconic event that combines world-class competition with an unbeatable trackside atmosphere.”

    SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER | LADIES DAY, SPRING RACING CARNIVAL

    The glamour reaches its peak the very next day with Ladies Day, Newcastle’s annual celebration of fashion, friendship, and first-class racing.

    From the moment gates open, racegoers will be immersed in a day designed to celebrate style and sophistication:

    • Complimentary glass of champagne on arrival (while stocks last)
    • Live music from the high-energy Hot Potato Band, keeping the atmosphere lively all morning
    • Fashions on the Field, featuring Kate Kholer as Head Judge and hosted by Sarah Farley from Triple M, featuring the much-loved Women’s, Men’s, Millinery, and Couples categories
    • On-course beauty and photo experiences, including the Myer Pamper Station for last-minute touch-ups and the Kirin Hyoketsu Glam Cam 360° video booth to capture the perfect race day look
    • Entertainment after the last race from Mike Vee who pays tribute to John Farnham with his Whispering Jack Show

    The racing program will feature a quality line-up of provincial and metropolitan-class races, including the Prosperity Advisers Ladies Day Cup adding to the excitement. Guests can indulge in one of the hospitality experiences on offer or enjoy the lively public lawn atmosphere.

    CEO Duane Dowell said:

    “Ladies Day is one of the true highlights of our racing calendar, where the thrill of first-class racing meets the elegance of fashion and fun. It’s a day that perfectly captures the spirit of Newcastle – vibrant, stylish, and full of energy. From the moment guests arrive, they’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience both on and off the track, making Ladies Day an occasion not to be missed.”

    WHY THIS WEEKEND IS UNMISSABLE

    This two-day festival of racing and style is the highlight of Newcastle’s Spring calendar, attracting thousands of visitors from across NSW and beyond. For the media, it offers:

    • Elite sporting action with Group racing drawing top-tier competitors
    • High fashion moments including the new Best Suit category in Fashions on the Field
    • Vibrant crowd scenes from corporate marquees to lawn picnics and live music

    Local stories from homegrown talent in the racing industry to regional businesses supporting the event.

    TICKETS & HOSPITALITY

    Tickets for both events are on sale now, with options ranging from general admission to all-inclusive hospitality suites. Early booking is encouraged, as premium packages for both days traditionally sell out well in advance.

    For full ticketing details and hospitality packages, visit:

    Sharp Office Newcastle Gold Cup Race Day: newcastleracecourse.com.au/goldcup
    Ladies Day: newcastleracecourse.com.au/ladiesday

    For a copy of the full press release, click here.