Perfect weather for racegoers

Racegoers enjoyed near-perfect weather conditions at the Port Hedland Turf Club on Sunday.

Around 1100 people filed through the gate from noon for a six-race meet, sponsored by Hedland First National.

In the main race of the day, Ray Malpass-trained Just Hoping, ridden by Ben Kennedy, won the $15,000 Hedland First National Ladies Day Cup ahead of Classy Twister and Knight Runner.

There was also a hotly contested competition of a different kind as 47 women took part in Fashions on the Field.

Outfits ranged from long ankle-length dresses to thigh-skimming floral numbers, while hats included a royal blue vintage one found at an op shop and an intricate lace head piece made by local milliner Amanda Smith of Gloria Pearl.

A black hand-blocked hat with white detailing and floating leather butterflies made by Ms Smith and worn by Amanda Green with a striking black and nude outfit was picked as the day’s best fascinator.

Ms Green won a Gloria Pearl voucher.

The North West Telegraph’s Kelly Bell and Heather McNeill took a gonzo journalism approach to reporting on the fashions by entering.

Both were more than a little surprised to find themselves in the final 10.

Demelza Whiting took out third prize, a Desert Goddess beauty package valued at $350, Bell was runner-up and received a $500 package from Luke Paul for Hair, while in first place, McNeill won the $1000 cash prize, sponsored by Hedland First National’s Morag Lowe.

Turf club president Darren White said the committee was thrilled by the turnout for its second biggest race meet of the year.

“It was an absolutely fantastic day — we were very happy with the behaviour of the people which was recognised by all, ” he said.

“The weather was on our side and the club is very, very happy.”

Port Hedland police Sergeant Jason Gentili said he was pleased with the organisation of the day and punters’ behaviour.

“I thought it was really well run, a good set-up and all the people were really good, ” he said.

“We had two evictions for intoxication out of about 1100 people and one person charged for possession of drugs.”