Australian racing royalty to make appearance at Townsville Cup

The Townsville Turf Club is thrilled to announce that Australian racing legend Michelle Payne will make a special appearance at the 2026 Townsville Cup, bringing one of the most celebrated figures in Australian sporting history to North Queensland’s biggest race day.

Payne etched her name into history in 2015 when she became the first female jockey to win the Melbourne Cup, producing one of the greatest upsets in the race’s history aboard Prince of Penzance.

Her unforgettable victory transcended racing, becoming a defining moment in Australian sport and inspiring countless women and girls to pursue careers in industries traditionally dominated by men.

Her remarkable career has also been shaped by incredible resilience. 

Payne overcame numerous injuries, including a fall in 2016 that required surgery before courageously returning to the saddle.

Following an outstanding career spanning more than two decades, she retired from race riding in 2024 and now focuses on training thoroughbreds while continuing to make a significant contribution to the racing industry.

Townsville Turf Club Chairman Geoff Weeks said securing Michelle Payne for the 2026 Townsville Cup was a landmark moment for both the club and the region.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Michelle Payne to Townsville. This is one of the biggest guest announcements we’ve ever made and a truly special moment for our club, our members and the entire North Queensland community,” Mr Weeks said.

“Michelle is Australian racing royalty. 

"What she achieved aboard Prince of Penzance changed the sport forever and created one of the most iconic moments in Australian sporting history. 

"To have someone of her calibre joining us at Cluden Park is simply incredible.

“As a club, we’re incredibly proud to celebrate female leadership and diversity in our sport. 

"Having Michelle here allows us to recognise not only one of racing’s greatest champions, but also an extraordinary role model whose legacy continues to inspire women and girls to dream big and back themselves.”

The announcement comes as excitement for the Townsville Cup reaches unprecedented levels, with ticket sales already tracking at record-breaking numbers, making this one of the strongest carnivals in the club’s history.

“The excitement around this year’s Townsville Cup is unlike anything we’ve seen in recent years,” Mr Weeks said.

“Ticket sales are at record levels and the momentum just keeps building. 

"Michelle Payne’s appearance adds another incredible reason for racegoers to be part of what is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting Townsville Cup we’ve ever delivered.”

Thousands of racegoers are expected to descend on Cluden Park to enjoy a spectacular day of elite thoroughbred racing, premium hospitality, fashion, entertainment and community celebration, with Michelle Payne’s appearance set to be one of the highlights of the carnival.

The Townsville Turf Club encourages racegoers to secure final tickets as soon as possible, with strong demand expected to continue leading into race day.

In further exciting news, the feature Townsville Cup will be broadcast live on Channel 7 as part of their Saturday racing coverage.

Click here for final tickets and event information.