Expression & bold prints
Sara Leonardi doesn’t do florals. Ophelia is the exception and it exists because of Noosa Cup Day.
The newest release from the It’s a Fad label, Ophelia is the graphic and experiential inspiration behind Noosa Cup Day Sunday, 16 August 2026 at Sunshine Coast Turf Club. The print brings together florals, geometric shapes and what Sara describes as “really cool snakes and birds”, chosen specifically for this event. In conversation with Noosa-based equine enthusiast Imika Neylan, she explained why.
“For us at It’s a Fad, it is actually the easiest of race days,” Sara says, “because the label already embodies everything that is about expression and bold prints and comfortable styles.” Ophelia lends itself to accessorising, giving the wearer room to make it their own. When pressed on what Noosa Cup means to Sara, she highlighted, “a really beautiful community and beautiful women,”
One woman who personifies this is, Emma Thomlinson. The Noosa local and singer-songwriter, known to many for singing the national anthem at this year’s State of Origin, is performing at Noosa Cup Day. She’s also a devoted It’s a Fad follower and talks about the way Sara’s designs spark creativity and joy in a way that carries directly into her performance. When fashion and music connect like that, the room feels it.
The Champagne Garden is the birdcage on your doorstep. Hosted by Mark Forbes, with linen tables, pink florals and gold pots at the centre, a champagne cart on arrival and Emma Thomlinson performing for the first race, it’s a loaded ticket into the best crowd of the day. Sara is bringing her partner and inviting yours. Come and launch the new racing season in style, together.
It’s members only. To book for yourself and bring guests, you need a current SCTC Membership. With one week to go, spaces are filling. Membership starts from $150, and this is a very good first Sunday to spend it.
the deck party
For guests on general admission, The Deck Party is the call. $30 gets you raceday admission, a Kirin Hyoketsu welcome drink, a burger and Bo’ness Brothers live on The Deck. Four tickets for $100.
Halse lodge after party
The racing ends. The day doesn’t have to!
Jump on the courtesy bus to Halse Lodge and keep the afternoon going. First drink on Halse Lodge.
$20 one-way | $30 return. Book when you get your tickets, or grab a seat on the day, subject to availability.
TICKETS
Find your best ticket options:
- General Admission: $14 online | $15 at the gate
- Champagne Garden
- Deck Party Tickets
- Join as a Member from $150
