The Finocchiaro CLP Government is celebrating successful race days as the Territory prepares for the Carnival's Darwin Cup.
Attendance across the Darwin Cup Carnival to date is up nine per cent on the same period last year, highlighting the event's growing popularity.
Thousands of interstate visitors are expected to arrive tomorrow, with record demand seeing the Darwin Turf Club expand its VIP hospitality area ahead of the Carnival's biggest weekend.
With thousands of interstate visitors expected to arrive in the Territory tomorrow ahead of the Great Northern Darwin Cup on Monday, the Carnival is continuing to deliver a major boost for local tourism, hospitality and businesses.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby said the strong attendance figures reflected the growing appeal of one of the Territory's premier events.
"The Darwin Cup Carnival is one of the highlights of our events calendar, and it's fantastic to see attendance already up nine per cent compared with the same time last year," Minister Boothby said.
"From tomorrow we'll welcome thousands more visitors to Darwin for what is shaping up to be an incredible weekend, with the Gala Ball, Great Northern Palmerston Sprint Day and, of course, the Great Northern Darwin Cup still to come.
"These visitors are staying in our hotels, dining in our restaurants, shopping at our local businesses and supporting jobs right across the Territory.
"The Dry Season is the perfect time to experience the Territory, and events like the Darwin Cup Carnival continue to showcase everything that makes the Northern Territory such a unique destination."
Darwin Turf Club Chief Executive Officer Chris Chaffe said this year's Carnival had exceeded expectations.
"The response has been absolutely remarkable," Mr Chaffe said.
"We've seen record demand for our premium hospitality experiences, with the VIP area expanded to accommodate more guests.
"The excitement continues to build, and we're looking forward to welcoming thousands of racegoers across what promises to be one of the biggest weekends in Darwin Cup Carnival history."
Minister Boothby said the Carnival demonstrated the value of investing in major events that attract visitors and support the Territory economy.
"The Darwin Cup Carnival is about so much more than racing. It's a celebration of our Territory lifestyle and a major driver of tourism and economic activity.
"Whether you're a local or visiting from interstate, there's never been a better time to experience everything the Territory has to offer.
"I encourage everyone to get involved, support our local businesses and enjoy the excitement as we head towards Monday's Great Northern Darwin Cup."
