Emma Pritchard

With so many glamourous fashions, stylish ensembles, and creative mixtures of vibrant colours and patterns proudly modelled during the Kids and Family Fashions on the Field at the July Racing Carnival last year, the panel of judges had an exceptionally difficult time choosing the winners.

And they’re expecting it to be just as challenging in 2023.

Proudly sponsored by the Maclean Bowling Club, who are excited to continue their association with the Clarence River Jockey Club (CRJC) during one of the regions premier sporting events, the Kids and Family Fashions on the Field features five categories including Toddler (1-3 years), Junior (4-8 years), Tween (9-12 years), Teen (13-17 years), and Family Fashions, which is open to all parents and guardians and their children, with prizes generously donated by local businesses including Ace Variety Discounts, Ta’Chele Australis, Shoes at Carneys Arcade, Mobilebarn Maclean, and SPAR Maclean, to be awarded to the best dressed boy and girl and runners up in each section.

Elanah Dunston, winner of the Teen (13-17 years) category during the July Racing Carnival last year, is planning to enter the competition again in 2023, and has been busy planning her race day attire throughout the past 12 months.

A regular participant in the Maclean Bowling Club Kids and Family Fashions on the Field, Elanah loves dressing up and heading to the races, and is always ready to have plenty of fun.

Describing herself as over the moon to walk away with a sash last year, Elanah said she would love to see more kids and teenagers enter in 2023.

“It’s nice to see so many people dress up for the day,” she said.

Admitting she felt too shy to enter the Maclean Bowling Club Kids and Family Fashions on the Field last year, Mia Howlett said she is focused on conquering her nerves and overcoming her fear of being on stage in 2023.

“I’ve always felt really nervous, but I’d really like to try and be brave and enter,” she said.

“I love seeing all the girls and the women wearing their prettiest dresses, and I’d love to stand up beside them one day.

“The Fashions on the Field is definitely my favourite thing to watch when I go to the races.”

The Maclean Bowling Club Kids and Family Fashions on the Field will be held on July 16.

Entrants are invited to assemble at the main stage area at 1:30pm.