The 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup has arrived in Darwin alongside three-time Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Glen Boss as part of the national 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour.
For the first time in its 165-year history, the Melbourne Cup has been handcrafted using 100 per cent Northern Territory gold sourced from Newmont's Tanami operation in the Northern Territory and handcrafted by ABC Bullion.
Newmont Tanami contributes more than $929 million annually to the Territory economy and supports thousands of local jobs, highlighting the importance of the NT's world-class mining industry.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is welcoming Australia's most iconic sporting trophy to the Territory this week, with the 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup arriving in Darwin alongside legendary jockey Glen Boss.
The three-time Melbourne Cup-winning jockey is visiting Darwin as part of the 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour, giving Territorians the chance to see the $1 million trophy up close before it returns to Flemington in November.
This year's Cup holds a special connection to the Northern Territory, having been handcrafted for the first time in its 165-year history using 100 per cent Territory gold sourced from Newmont's Tanami mine, located northwest of Alice Springs.
The 2026 Cup weighs over 1.8kg and contains almost 60 ounces of 18-carat gold in 44 individually shaped components.
Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Mining and Energy Gerard Maley said the visit was a proud moment for the Territory.
"The Lexus Melbourne Cup is Australia's most famous sporting trophy, and this year it has an unmistakable Territory connection.
"We're delighted to welcome the Cup and racing legend Glen Boss to Darwin and showcase a trophy that quite literally started its journey here in the Northern Territory.
"From the Tanami Desert to Flemington, this year's Cup highlights the strength of our world-class mining industry."
Newmont Africa Asia Pacific Interim Managing Director Nick Hill said it is a proud moment to see gold from the Tanami operation featured in the Cup.
"Tanami is one of Australia's most remote mines, and this represents the dedication, skill and commitment of our workforce who operate in a uniquely challenging environment."
"To have that gold become part of one of Australia's most iconic trophies is a powerful moment for our people and for the Territory. It reflects not just the quality of the resource, but the pride we take in responsibly producing gold that connects with Australians in such a meaningful way."
Minister for Racing Marie-Clare Boothby said the visit was the perfect way to build excitement as part of the Territory's racing season.
"Having the Lexus Melbourne Cup in Darwin, together with one of the race's greatest champions in Glen Boss, is a fantastic opportunity for racing fans across the Territory."
"Racing is part of the Territory lifestyle, bringing communities together, supporting local jobs and attracting visitors."
"As we enjoy another exciting Darwin racing season, this visit shines a spotlight on the passion Territorians have for the sport and the significant contribution racing makes to our economy and community."
"Newmont Tanami contributes more than $929 million to the Territory economy each year and supports thousands of jobs, demonstrating why our resources sector continues to be such an important driver of economic growth," added Minister Maley.
The 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour will visit 37 destinations across Australia and overseas before the Cup returns to Flemington for the race that stops the nation.
Vision: Australia's Beating Heart | The 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup here
