Cup chic on parade

Deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop and mining magnate Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest were among the A-listers who flew into town over the weekend to celebrate the biggest race round of the year, the Broome Cup.

The spectacular 2014 race season came to a climactic end on Saturday as 6000 spectators poured into the Broome Turf Club grounds to enjoy the premier event, which boasted top sporting action, high fashion and live entertainment.

Temperatures soared and champagne flowed as crowds witnessed John Gangemi-trained Central Park ride to victory, scooping the $100,000 XXXX Gold Broome Cup.

Meanwhile, VIPs soaked up the atmosphere in the luxurious Allure South Sea Pearls marquee.

High-profile visitors this year included deputy Liberal leader Julie Bishop, Fortescue Metals Group billionaire Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest and his wife Nicola, and Seven West Media chairman Kerry Stokes and his wife Christine Simpson Stokes.

Mr Forrest said he was delighted to see the event well supported.

"Just to see the North West turn out so wonderfully, we've got such spectacular people and to have … all the ladies in their finery, the gentlemen looking snappy, it's great."

Allure South Sea Pearls retail manager Barbara Farrell said this year's marquee theme reflected the company's new branding, showcasing classic, simplistic style and elegance.

Allure South Sea Pearls judges had their work cut out in the Fashions on the Field competition, as ladies went all out to impress with their eclectic outfits.

But it was chic Broome resident Callee Walsh who was crowned the winner in a white Scanlan Theodore dress, with matching white fascinator and heels.

Broome Turf Club manager Doug Milner said organisers were happy with this year's event, despite a drop in the number of attendees. He said the lower turnout was a reflection of the local economy and recent cold weather.

For more on this, pick up this week's Broome Advertiser.