One of Australia’s most treasured sporting possessions will make its way to Coonabarabran this weekend.

The Melbourne Cup will make a short appearance at the Coonabarabran Showground as part of the North West Equestrian Expo on Saturday, 5 June.

The Coonabarabran Jockey Club will also host the trophy at the Coonabarabran Racecourse on Sunday morning from 9am.

Lindy Maurice, from Thoroughbred Industry Careers, has organised for the Cup to arrive, albeit in a roundabout way.

Due to another COVID-19 outbreak in Victoria, the Cup’s trek across the country was almost cancelled.

But thanks to the persistence of organisers, the Cup will be flown to Sydney before being escorted by security on road to Coonabarabran. 

“It’s been a logistical nightmare with COVID-19 and the restrictions surrounding the Cup, but we’re excited to be bringing it to Coonabarabran for the Expo,” Mrs Maurice said.

Expo organisers, competitors and teachers and will get the chance to hold the Cup and snap some photos at the Showground on Saturday.

The rest of the town will have a chance to hold a piece of Australian sporting history the following day.

While it hasn’t been guaranteed, the Cup may also make its way to several local businesses during its 24-hour visit.

Coonabarabran Jockey Club president, Stewart Rodgers, said it was an exciting prospect.

“We had it here four or five years ago as part of a tour it was on,” Mr Rogers said.

“It’s fitting that it’s coming here for the Expo to help promote the racing industry.

“Its a great avenue for young people to consider a career in the racing industry - and what better way to highlight it than with the Melbourne Cup.”

See the full North West Equestrian Expo feature in Thursday, 3 June edition of the Coonabarabran Times.