Jessica Kennedy combined her fun personality with her outfit on the catwalk at Fashions on the Field.
By Melissa Meehan
More than 5000 punters graced the Pakenham Racecourse grounds hoping to pick a winner.
The weather showed glimpses of sunshine and – while a cool breeze was felt throughout the day – the rains held off.
Pakenham Racing Club sales and events manager Anthony Millican said the day had proved popular with locals.
“Pakenham Oaks Day continues to grow,” he said.
“The crowd was bigger than last year, as were entries to Fashions on the Field.”
Mr Millican said the 2100 pre-booked packages, which included tickets to the Indulgence Marquee, trackside tables or private marquees, were an important aspect to the day’s success.
“People seem to like having their own space to go back to,” he said.
“Whether that’s in a marquee or trackside tables they seem to be really popular.”
He said walk-ins also increased from previous years.
Added entertainment also proved popular; with racegoers busting a groove to the DJ once the races were ran.
Mr Millican said the young members’ marquee had also proven a popular addition to the day, with more than 70 people signing up.
Racing co-ordinator Hayley Conn said Fashions on the Field was an overwhelming success, with 170 entrants – more than ever before.
“The Immerse Photography Fashions on the Field had a very high quality of entrants for 2010 and the fashions were of an exceptional standard,” Ms Conn said.
“All the men and women who graced the catwalk showed off the latest trends for the 2010 spring racing fashion.
“The new fashions location looked amazing and the crowd were a great support to all the people who entered.”
The two have no time to rest, and are busily preparing for Pakenham’s next race day, the Tapcorp Christmas Race Day to be held on December 3, as well as starting to plan for Oaks Day in 2011.
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