Ipswich Cup Day Celebrates Racing, Fashion and Community

By Rach Z | Radio Springfield City

Ipswich Cup Day once again brought racing, fashion, music and thousands of racegoers together at the Ipswich Turf Club in Bundamba.

Broadcasting from the event for Radio Springfield City, Rach Z caught up with Ipswich Turf Club Chief Executive Officer Nathan Exelby to discuss what makes the Ipswich Cup such an important occasion for the city.

Nathan said the event has built an incredibly loyal following, with many people returning year after year.

“The City of Ipswich and Greater Ipswich take ownership of this day, and they make it what it is and has been for 160 years,” he said.

For Rach Z, who has attended the Ipswich Cup for around a decade, the day is about much more than the racing. It is also an opportunity to catch up with people, enjoy the food and entertainment, and see the wide variety of fashions on display.

Nathan described the racetrack as a “melting pot” that brings together people from all sections of the community.

From sophisticated outfits to colourful and creative suits, he said Cup Day allows everyone to add their own personality to the occasion.

The event also provides an important economic boost for Ipswich, supporting local fashion providers, hospitality businesses and other suppliers before, during and after the event.

This year’s infield music festival featured food trucks alongside live entertainment, while the Turf Club’s hospitality team worked to provide plenty of options across the venue.

Racing remained at the centre of the celebrations, with strong fields assembled for the day’s feature races. Before scratchings, approximately 160 horses had been accepted across the program.

Nathan said Ipswich Cup Day has a reputation for thrilling finishes and hoped racegoers would once again see some exciting contests on the track.

Beyond Cup Day, the Ipswich Turf Club is preparing for a busy 2026–27 racing season, with 43 meetings scheduled.

Annual membership costs $170 and provides entry to all 43 meetings and access to the members’ area. Members are also invited to two dedicated members’ days featuring complimentary food and drinks.

Nathan encouraged people interested in racing and the Ipswich Turf Club community to visit the club’s website and consider becoming a member.

Missed the interview? Listen to Rach Z’s full conversation with Ipswich Turf Club Chief Executive Officer Nathan Exelby through Radio Springfield City’s podcast.