From the Network: Julia Creek Turf Club

JULIA CREEK TURF CLUB – FASHIONS ON THE FIELD

WHAT THEY DO DIFFERENTLY

For Julia Creek Turf Club, Fashions on the Field is much more than a competition. It has become a celebration of the local community, encouraging people of all ages to participate, dress up and enjoy race day together. By combining strong community support, dedicated event coordination and continual improvement, the club has built a competition that has become a long-standing race day tradition.

WHAT WORKS?

BUILDING A COMMUNITY TRADITION

Julia Creek Turf Club believes the success of Fashions on the Field comes from creating an event that brings people together.

Their approach focuses on:

• Creating another reason for people to attend race day
• Encouraging participation from competitors and spectators alike
• Building a tradition that people look forward to each year
• Celebrating the local community

The club has found that making people feel part of the event creates an atmosphere that keeps them coming back.

DEDICATED OWNERSHIP

One of the biggest contributors to the competition's success has been appointing a dedicated Fashions on the Field Coordinator.

This role is responsible for:

• Bringing fresh ideas to the competition
• Building relationships with sponsors
• Coordinating the event
• Continually improving the experience

Having clear ownership has helped ensure the competition continues to evolve each year.

MAKING THE COMPETITION INCLUSIVE

Julia Creek has worked to make Fashions on the Field welcoming and accessible for everyone.

Their approach includes:

• Categories for all ages, from Tiny Tots through to adults
• Encouraging families to participate together
• Creating a relaxed and supportive atmosphere
• Celebrating participation as well as success

The club believes making people feel welcome is one of the keys to long-term participation.

KEEPING THE COMPETITION FRESH

Each year the club reviews its competition to ensure it continues to reflect both the community and the race day experience.

This has included:

• Expanding competition categories
• Introducing new themes
• Increasing prize money
• Refining judging and presentations

These ongoing improvements have helped maintain interest while preserving the welcoming country atmosphere that Julia Creek is known for.

BUILDING STRONG SPONSOR PARTNERSHIPS

Sponsors play an important role in supporting the competition.

Julia Creek Turf Club allocates sponsors to individual competition categories, which:

• Increases sponsor visibility
• Creates stronger business partnerships
• Supports quality prize offerings
• Encourages long-term sponsorship

The club has found this approach benefits both sponsors and competitors while strengthening the overall event.

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

Like many country clubs, Julia Creek faces challenges associated with operating in a remote community.

These include:

• Sourcing judges
• Attracting sponsors
• Encouraging participation

The club has overcome these challenges through strong community relationships, dedicated volunteers and ongoing collaboration with businesses across the region.

WHAT OTHER CLUBS SHOULD TAKE FROM THIS

• Appoint a dedicated coordinator to lead the competition.
• Create categories that encourage participation across all age groups.
• Focus on making the competition welcoming and inclusive.
• Develop strong relationships with local sponsors.
• Continue evolving the competition each year while maintaining your club's identity.
• Most importantly, create an experience that people enjoy and want to return to.

Julia Creek Turf Club's experience demonstrates that a successful Fashions on the Field competition is built on community, strong leadership and a commitment to making every participant feel welcome.