
Dust off the black-and-white outfits, find your favourite fascinator and gather your friends for an afternoon of fashion, food and fun, all while supporting a cause that makes a difference in the community.
The annual Whitsunday Zonta Derby Day Luncheon returns on Saturday, October 31, with a new venue for 2026, welcoming guests to Mantra Club Croc in Cannonvale.
Running from 11.30am to 4pm, the popular event brings together locals for a race-day celebration filled with elegant outfits, delicious food, entertainment and plenty of friendly competition.
Inspired by the excitement and traditions of Derby Day, the luncheon captures the glamour of race day, with guests encouraged to embrace classic black-and-white attire and showcase their style in Fashions on the Field.

Tickets are $95 per person, plus booking fee, and include a welcome glass of bubbles and a delicious luncheon.
Throughout the afternoon, guests can also enjoy raffles, sweepstakes, auctions and door prizes, making it a wonderful opportunity to catch up with friends, meet new people and enjoy a memorable day out.
Beyond the fashion and festivities, organisers say the event has a much bigger purpose.
The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays is part of Zonta International, a global organisation dedicated to advancing the rights of women and girls and creating a world where they can reach their full potential.
Through fundraising, advocacy and community initiatives, Zonta works to improve opportunities for women and girls, supporting education, safety, equality and independence.

Funds raised through the Whitsunday Derby Day Luncheon go directly towards the club’s local and global projects, including educational scholarships and bursaries for students, initiatives supporting local women and children, and assistance for the local women’s refuge.
By attending, guests are helping the club continue this important work while enjoying a fantastic afternoon with friends and fellow community members.
Whether a regular Derby Day attendee or someone looking for a new way to support local initiatives, everyone is welcome to join the celebration.
Tables are expected to be popular, so gather your friends and book early for an afternoon where community spirit takes centre stage.