October 10, 2019
More than 300 star-studded guests attended the Australian Turf Club’s (ATC) the inaugural Everest Carnival Fashion Lunch at Royal Randwick today with the who’s who from racing, fashion and entertainment in attendance.
Commencing with pink carpet arrivals in the Moët & Chandon Garden on the Members Lawn, guests of the sold-out event were treated to a surprise ten-tier Moët & Chandon Champagne tower pour, premium Champagne, Gordon’s Pink Gin cocktails, and De Bortoli Wines which complimented a delicious two-course luncheon prepared by Royal Randwick Executive Head Chef, George Mullen.
Channel Seven’s Emma Vosti and James Tobin delighted as co-hosts, leading the formalities which included a stylish Harrolds spring racewear runway to a live performance by Ricki-Lee Coulter, and inspiring ‘Women in Power’ panel featuring Melbourne Cup winning jockey Michelle Payne, Monika Tu, Founder and Director of luxury property agency, Black Diamondz Group; and Australian media trailblazer Cherie Romaro.
One lucky prize winner went home dripping in diamonds with the stunning $25,000 pendant donated by Nic Cerrone at Cerrone Jewellers featuring a 1.02ct radiant cut diamond, a marquise cut diamond, and rare natural pink Australian ‘Argyle’ diamond, while ATC Racing Ambassador, former Group 1 Jockey and Seven Racing Expert Katelyn Mallyon, drew out the minor prizes which included a $500 Harrolds shopping voucher; $500 Runway Room spring beauty pack; Moët & Chandon Magnum bottle; and a luxurious chauffeur experience with new ATC partner, Bentley – all in support of the McGrath Foundation.
Glenn McGrath, founder of the McGrath Foundation and official fundraising partner of the Everest Carnival Fashion Lunch, spoke to guests about Breast Cancer Awareness month in October and specialist McGrath Breast Care nurses, to which the total raffle proceeds will be donated.
On display for guests to admire was The TAB Everest Trophy, also designed by Cerrone jewellers, valued at $625,000 featuring 9000 black and white diamonds, while everyone in the room received a stylish Antler fashion gift bag filled with Everest Carnival goodies.
Corina Black, ATC Executive General Manager of Commercial said that the sold-out event was a successful celebration of all things racing, fashion, food and friendships.
“The inaugural Everest Carnival Fashion Lunch was a wonderful success raising money for the McGrath Foundation, while hearing the awe-inspiring stories of Michelle Payne, Cherie Romaro and Monika Tu and a brilliant performance by Ricki-Lee to the Harrolds spring racewear runway,” said Ms Black.
“The Everest Carnival is time to celebrate, have fun with loved ones and to make new connections and I’m incredibly inspired with what we’ve experienced today at Royal Randwick.”
The world’s richest turf race, the $14 million The TAB Everest (1200m) will again put the global sporting spotlight firmly on Sydney’s racing headquarters on Saturday 19 October with international star Kelly Rowland headlining the entertainment.