Special Dolly focus at this year's Katherine Cup

An iconic identity and one of the biggest crowns in racing, the Katherine Turf Club are excited to announce the Lexus Melbourne Cup will be in attendance on Saturday, August 18.

As part of a day of fundraising for Dolly’s Dream guests to have the opportunity to have their photo taken with the iconic trophy, in return for a gold coin donation.

Worth over $200,000, the 18-carat gold trophy will be ridden into the Mounting Yard by Dolly’s parents, Tick and Kate Everett before the running of the classic Katherine Stock Horse race.

Dolly’s sister Meg will lead the Stock Horse entrants on to the track and to the starting line.

This year the race is being run in Dolly’s Honour with riders vying for a trophy, prizemoney and a one-off commemorative horse rug.

Jockey Chris Symons will also be in attendance.

Chris organised the blue breeches campaign earlier this year where jockeys across Australia rode in blue breeches in memory of Dolly.

He will also be on hand to talk all things Lexus Melbourne Cup.

The day’s Fashions on the Field are turning blue and fluttery, adopting butterflies and Dolly’s favourite colour.

Sky City has donated accommodation packages to the winners.

Punters are being encouraged to wear blue and to support Dolly’s Dream through sales of merchandise on the day.

KTC president Bobby Woodhouse said the day promises to be action packed.

“It’s an opportunity to get dressed up, have a fun day out with family and friends and support a great cause.

“We are so excited to have the Melbourne Cup on hand and we encourage everyone to get to the track to see it.

“We would love to see everyone coming through the gate sporting something blue as a sign of support to the Everett family and Dolly's Dream.”

Katherine Times