Kate Waterhouse and her renowned horse trainer mother, Gai Waterhouse, turned heads as they led the arrivals at the Everest Carnival Launch in Sydney on Tuesday. The event, held at the historic Royal Randwick Racecourse, was a spectacle of fashion and racing heritage, attracting a host of celebrities and industry insiders.
Kate, a 40-year-old racing heiress, captivated attention in a strapless satin blue dress from the Spanish luxury brand Loewe, adorned with a gold detail at the front. Complementing her attire with matching gold earrings, she styled her blonde hair into a sleek ponytail. Her mother, Gai, aged 70, looked equally elegant in a cream-colored suit jacket paired with matching trousers. Adding a splash of color, Gai accessorized with a light purple designer bag and a vibrant scarf.
The mother-daughter duo made a grand entrance in a horse-drawn carriage, sharing the ride with former Married At First Sight star Duncan James and his friend Tim Brimmer. Both men looked dapper in navy suits, complete with buttoned shirts and ties, enhancing the sophisticated atmosphere of the event.
The Fashion Parade at Royal Randwick
Model Laura Dundovic, 37, was another standout at the launch, arriving in a striking strapless red dress that accentuated her cinched waist. The former Miss Universe Australia completed her ensemble with a matching fascinator and red stilettos, embodying the glamour of the occasion.
Joining the fashionable crowd was influencer Saskia Wotton, who dazzled in a light pink frock. Known for her own fashion label, Muma World, Saskia accessorized with a net fascinator, straw clutch, and pink heels, showcasing her flair for style.
Channel Seven’s Mel McLaughlin also made an impression in a mini blazer dress, paired with beige heels. Her long, curled brunette hair added to her polished look as she mingled with other guests.
Star-Studded Attendees and Lavish Settings
The event was graced by the presence of Grace Hayden, daughter of cricket legend Matthew Hayden, who wore a patterned white and navy dress by Melbourne designer OGLIA-LORO couture. Her outfit featured three bows and tulle detailing, complemented by a matching fascinator and white stilettos.
Hat designer Stacey Hemera Roberts showcased her figure in a mustard-colored strapless dress, while Emma Freedman, the event’s hostess, brought a fresh vibe in a baby blue dress with frill detail. Married At First Sight star Carina Mirabile stunned in a pale yellow suit by Carla Zampatti.
Guests were treated to a luxurious experience, arriving in style via horse-drawn carriages and greeted with Grey Goose’s signature Mandarin Daze cocktail and Moët & Chandon. The setting included a striking 16-horse starter barrier with live horses, embodying the spirit of the Carnival.
Unveiling the Carnival’s Rich Legacy
The Everest Carnival, a highlight of the Australian racing calendar, unveiled its record $87 million prize money program, spanning nine weeks from September 20 to November 8 across Royal Randwick and Rosehill Gardens. The carnival features headline races such as the $20 million TAB Everest, the world’s richest turf race, and the $10 million Golden Eagle.
Inside the historic stables, a 22-meter dining table adorned with white and green florals and chandeliers set a spectacular scene for the luncheon, emphasizing the grandeur of the event. The launch not only celebrated the upcoming races but also highlighted the enduring legacy and cultural significance of horse racing in Australia.
As the Everest Carnival continues to grow in prestige, it remains a testament to the vibrant fusion of sport, fashion, and tradition, drawing enthusiasts and celebrities alike to its thrilling spectacle.
