All previous records at the Nu Nu Restaurant Melbourne Cup have been blown out of the water, with more than $200,000 raised as 260 philanthropists gathered on the shores of the Coral Sea.
The 22nd annual Nu Nu Restaurant Melbourne Cup delivered an unforgettable fusion of glamour, gastronomy, and generosity, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Coral Sea. Guests experienced an unparalleled afternoon of philanthropy, fuelled by the thrill of a horse race on the beach – a spectacle that has become synonymous with this iconic event.
From the moment the champagne corks popped, attendees were immersed in an atmosphere of celebration and purpose. The event showcased the very best of Far North Queensland hospitality, with Nu Nu’s award-winning culinary team curating a menu celebrating local produce and coastal flavours.
Funds raised from this year’s event contributed to the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s Donate for DaNi campaign and added to the $525,000 raised in the previous 21 years.
This year’s tally means the event has contributed more than $721,000 to improving health outcomes, in the past 22 years.
Nu Nu Restaurant co-owner Mo Rowbottom said the “Saddle up in Scarlet” theme was well adopted by attendees, with the venue stunningly decorated by Two Tribes.
“We really couldn’t pull this off without our incredible staff, our donors, the Hospital Foundation volunteers and of course the attendees who give so generously,” Mrs Rowbottom said.
“We’ve seen an amazing day where horse race winners bought ‘extra’ raffle tickets, where the winner of our horse race on the beach donated part of his winnings to the cause, but particularly auction donors then buying other auctions or even their own – that’s how dedicated our community is to this cause,” she aid.
The highlight of the day? A heart-stopping horse race along Palm Cove’s pristine shoreline – a tradition that continues to captivate and delight.
As the horses thundered across the sand, the crowd cheered not only for the sport but for the cause: raising vital funds to support community health initiatives and charitable projects across the region.
This year’s Melbourne Cup at Nu Nu Restaurant reaffirmed its reputation as more than just a social occasion but a powerful platform for giving back. Through auctions, raffles, and generous donations, the event raised significant contributions that will make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
“It’s about creating magic – an afternoon where fine dining meets philanthropy,” Mrs Hogan said.
