Prizemoney boost to supercharge Northern Queensland Winter Racing Carnival
The Northern Queensland Winter Racing Carnival will go to another level in 2027, with a boost in prizemoney to see almost $3.5 million go up for grabs over two thrilling months of racing.
All four major Cups races held across Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns will now be run for $200,000 each, an increase of $50,000 for each race.
Being run for $75,000 each in 2026, the four Guineas races held across the same cities will now offer prizemoney of $100,000 in each race.
Additionally, the Mackay Newmarket will now be run for $100,000 to bring it in line with the prizemoney on offer in the Northern Carnival’s other feature sprints.
Acting Racing Queensland CEO Lachlan Murray said the boost in prizemoney reinforced the Northern Carnival’s standing as one of the state’s premier regional racing showcases.
“The Northern Queensland Winter Racing Carnival continues to go from strength to strength, and this investment is a clear vote of confidence in the clubs, participants and communities that make it such a special part of the Queensland racing calendar,” Mr Murray said.
“With more than $3 million in prizemoney on offer in 2027, there will be added incentive for owners, trainers and jockeys to target the carnival and showcase their horses across Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns.
“The carnival plays an important role in supporting the racing industry across Central and North Queensland, driving visitation, generating local economic activity and creating opportunities for regional participants to compete.”
The Great Northern Crowns bonus will look to add further incentive once again for connections in 2027, following a positive response to its introduction in 2026.
Racing Queensland will embark on a review of the 2026 bonus series and work with clubs and sponsors to strengthen the initiative ahead of next year’s Northern Carnival.
The full programme for the 2027 Northern Queensland Winter Racing Carnival will be confirmed next year.
