The raceday that launches a carnival

28 May 2026

Pedestrians could have been forgiven for doing a double-take when they passed Flicks, Darwin on Wednesday morning, May 27, with a racehorse surrounded by ladies in fascinators and men in race-worthy suits in the middle of the CBD bar.

The unique scene took place during the DCOH Guineas Race Day launch ahead of the upcoming Darwin Cup Carnival. Managing director and CEO of Darwin-based company DCOH, Shane Dignan says he’s always been proud of doing things a little differently in the Territory.

‘This is our third year as major sponsors of the carnival, and plans are well underway for the DCOH Guineas Day on Saturday, July 4. For us, it’s about supporting the local economy, investing in events that put Darwin on the map and giving back to the city’s vibrant social scene. The DCOH Guineas Day is the race day that launches the carnival and as proud sponsors, we’d love to see the trackside full of racegoers enjoying a fantastic day out,’ said Dignan.

It’s also shaping up to be a tandem celebration for Americans living in Darwin, as the race falls on the biggest day on the US Calendar – American Independence Day.

But it’s not only punters prepping for the big July 4 event at the Fannie Bay Racecourse. Jockeys, trainers and their teams have been preparing for the event for months, all vying for their share of the $300,000+ prize money on the day.

Darwin Turf Club CEO, Chris Chaffe, said the incredible ongoing support from sponsors like DCOH was critical to the carnival’s success.

‘We’re extremely pleased to have a local business like DCOH lead us off with the start to our eight-day carnival and look forward to continuing this partnership with Shane and his team well into the future.’

DCOH also sponsors the DCOH Darwin double, offering the trainer and jockey a $50,000 bonus if they win both the Guineas Day on July 4 and the Derby Day on July 18.

General admission and grandstand tickets are now on sale, with tickets also available for the Ted Bailey Grandstand Luncheon through the Darwin Turf Club website.

‘Our race day offers something for everyone, with quality racing, fashion and a great social atmosphere,’ said Dignan. ‘Dust off your hats, your frocks and your binoculars, and pencil it into the calendar. With dry season in full swing, it’s sure to be a great day out.’