Cloncurry Derby day fashions dazzle

Ms DeHennin was voted the lady of the day in the black and white Derby-day theme, winning her way through to the final where she impressed the judges to secure the top prize of the Commins Contracting Cloncurry Fashions Series for 2021.

Runner-up was Jonti Arnold from Longreach and also earned herself a place as a finalist among 10 finely dressed ladies for the headline act on Saturday.

Fashions series coordinator Ele Avery said it was incredible to welcome more than 700 people on race day after rain forced a stop to the races themselves on-site at the Cloncurry Turf Club.

"It was amazing that we had more than 700 people there and it was fantastic to see it so well supported," Ms Avery said.

"People came a long way for this event and that's also part of why we're doing it because it brings people to the district and supports businesses around town."

Also read: Faces at the Cloncurry races

She said the influx of visitors was a great boost to shops locally, while she was also thrilled to see involvement by local dress makers or milliners.

Ms Avery particularly praised Mount Isa-based Millinery by Mel who had crafted Ms DeHennin's winning piece.

"Mel made the winner's headpiece and she always comes down and supports us every time so it was lovely to see a local milliner had designed part of that winning outfit.

"A great thing about the fashions is that so many of the ladies, and in the crowd, were wearing pieces by local designers or local millinery and had their hair and makeup done locally."

Ms Avery said with the quality of outfits on show she was happy to not have to judge, but left it in the capable hands of visiting judges from Cairns.

"We didn't have contemporary or classic was it is lady of the track and runner-up it encompasses all the styles and leaves it to the judges to choose the most outstanding ensemble," she said.

"There were so many beautifully dressed stylish ladies there and the men as well, it's one of the most stylish men's fields we've had as well, it's gaining momentum.

"Neither of the judges had been out to the outback before and they were excited to see what we have to offer and they were very impressed

It just raises the prestige of the event and puts up on the next level which is great for showcasing what we have here."

Ms Avery thanked the event sponsors as well as the community for its ongoing support saying they had made the competition both possible and as formidable as the outfits were on Saturday.

Want news highlights delivered to your inbox? Sign up to the North Queensland Register newsletter below.