Giddy up, Cairns! It certainly is Spring Carnival at The Reef Hotel Casino.
Melbourne Cup has been a tradition at The Reef Hotel Casino for 30 years, and this year is set to bring all the excitement, atmosphere and racing action back to the heart of Cairns.
The racing action starts Melbourne Cup Carnival week with Derby Day on 31 October through to Stakes Day on 7 November, with all the excitement of the Spring Carnival at The Reef.
Our Melbourne Cup Luncheon may be officially SOLD OUT, but there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Cup Day including viewing the race on the 2 best screens in town in the Casino Sports Arena and BAR36.
In the Casino, all day coverage with 360-degree viewing, so you don’t miss any of the live action, TAB facilities with extra terminals right there in the Arena with the best bar menu and frosty beers on tap.
Or… grab a quick bite at Soy Kitchen and enjoy a celebratory drink at BAR36 ! We recommend the Karaage and Bubbles combo to get you in the mood while enjoying our new giant LED screen and sound system.
The celebrations continue after the race with the Spring Carnival Bookies Bonus draws in the Casino. 6 draws with up to $600 in cash up for grabs and an $800 luggage set as top prize ‘to help you get to the races in style’!
Just be playing the machines between 3pm – 5pm.
If live music is more your thing…internationally renowned Justin Wellington takes the stage to take the party to the next level into the early evening, with his unique brand of tropicana vibes live at BAR36.
Tuesday 3 November 2026
Celebrate Melbourne Cup Carnival at The Reef Hotel Casino. Celebrating 30 Years!