Entertainment
12 November, 2026
Fashionable fillies at lunch
A TOUCH of Shakespearean magic, plenty of fashion and a strong sense of community spirit has filled the Innisfail Shire Hall ballroom, as 102 guests gathered for the 31st annual St Rita’s School South Johnstone Melbourne Cup lunch.
Adorned in a ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ theme, the venue was transformed with creative decorations and a dedicated photo area, providing the perfect backdrop for one of the school community’s most anticipated fundraising events.
Guests were welcomed with a complimentary drink before enjoying a day filled with raffles, lucky-door prizes, sweeps, calcutta, the ever-popular monster goose, cent sale and lunch.
The excitement of the Melbourne Cup was broadcast on the largest LCD screen in town, ensuring everyone could enjoy the race that stops the nation.
Adding to the day’s success were 15 senior hospitality students from Good Counsel College, who assisted with service duties as part of their formal assessment, gaining valuable hands-on experience while contributing to the event.
Fashion was once again a major highlight, with guests embracing the occasion in stylish race-day attire. Judging categories included fashionable fillies, mature ladies and millinery, celebrating the creativity and elegance on display.
Generous table sponsors ensured every guest received a special thank-you gift to take home, while lucky winners walked away with an impressive array of prizes throughout the afternoon.
Since opening in 1932, St Rita’s School, South Johnstone, has been educating children from South Johnstone, Innisfail and surrounding districts.
The annual Melbourne Cup lunch has become an important tradition, bringing the broader community together while raising valuable funds for the school.
Principal Peta Bryan said the event was about much more than fundraising.
“Funds raised from this event and the annual fete go towards resources students identify, such as a modern and serene nature play space which provides an additional outdoor area for fun, engagement and learning with our younger students,” she said.
“While this annual event is a major fundraiser for the school and resources, more importantly it’s about teamwork, camaraderie, building connections in the local community and giving back.”
Ms Bryan said the success of the lunch reflected the tremendous support received from parents, families, staff, sponsors and the wider community.
With another successful lunch now in the history books, organisers are already looking ahead to next year, with the theme announced as ‘wacky and wild.’
Read More: Innisfail