Be Part of the Journey: Details of the Lexus Melbourne Cup’s Burdekin visit revealed

Burdekin locals and visitors will have a rare opportunity to experience the magic of the 2019 Lexus Melbourne Cup in person when it visits the region on Friday 26 July.

The 18-carat gold trophy will visit the Burdekin Race Club and the Burdekin Theatre as part of the 2019 Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour.

Now in its 17th year, the Tour has travelled more than 600,000 kilometres and visited more than 450 destinations in an effort to unite communities and raise funds for local causes.

This year’s trophy is especially significant because it represents the 100-year anniversary of the ‘Loving Cup’ design, with each of the three handles representing the owner, trainer, and jockey respectively. It is also very special because the gold used to make the 2019 Lexus Melbourne Cup is from Evolution Mining at Mt Carlton, located just south of Home Hill.

Residents and visitors can experience the 2019 Lexus Melbourne Cup in person during a free morning tea at the Burdekin Race Club from 9:30am, or one of two free luncheons at the Burdekin Theatre from 11:45am or 1pm.

Burdekin Shire Council Acting Mayor Sue Perry said the events would be an unforgettable experience for the community.

“We are very excited that the 2019 Lexus Melbourne Cup is visiting the Burdekin and on behalf of Council, I invite everyone to join us at one of the free community events,” she said.

“Excitingly, each event will also include guest speakers from the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) in Joe Agresta, former foreman of Bart Cummings and Joe McGrath, VRC’s Racing Engagements and Cup Tour Manager

“Evolution Mining Mount Carlton General Manager Anton Kruger will also be there along with some of the Evolution team. They’re presentation will include a video about how the Cup was made, from how Evolution found the gold to ABC Bullion crafting the final product.

“We will also be raffling a number of prizes donated by Evolution, Redpath Mining Australia, Hudson Welding and Northern Rise during the Burdekin events, with all proceeds donated to local charity Laurie’s Love.” Home Hill Race Club Treasurer Leanne Gudge said the club was excited to host Australia’s most iconic trophy.

“I think this is exceptional for the Home Hill Race Club. It’s a bit of excitement for our town to have the 2019 Lexus Melbourne Cup and also the gold has come from a local company, Evolution Mining.”

Evolution Mining’s Mr Kruger said the company was extremely proud to share this historic moment with the local Burdekin community.

“We are looking forward to meeting the local community members and showing everyone how we produce gold.”

The trophy will travel to 38 other towns and cities across the globe before returning to Flemington for ‘the race that stops a nation’ in November.

Where: Burdekin Race Club, Home Hill

When: 9:30am – 10:30am.

Cost: Free

Tickets: Tickets not required.

Where: Burdekin Theatre, Ayr

When: 11:45am – 12:45pm and 1pm – 2pm.

Cost: Free

Tickets: Free tickets available from www.burdekintheatre.com.au, (07) 4783 9880 or from Council’s Customer Service Centre.