Ipswich Cup marks 160 years as ground-shaking Festival of Horsepower returns New

Date: 26-May-2026

The thundering hooves and roaring engines of Ipswich’s month-long Festival of Horsepower might get a bit louder as the city celebrates a major milestone for one its favourite events.

The 2026 Festival of Horsepower is headlined by celebrations for 160 years of the TAB Ipswich Cup, alongside other main events Gulf Western Oil Winternationals and the Australian Superbike Championship.

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the city will be the epicentre of the racing world throughout June.

“Whether it’s two wheels, four wheels or four legs, Ipswich will be the place to be for those who love the thrill of racing with the sixth Festival of Horsepower in June,” Mayor Harding said.

“This year’s Festival of Horsepower is extra special as we celebrate 160 years of the Ipswich Cup on Saturday, 20 June.

“Since 1866, the Ipswich Cup has been beloved by our city as one of its most exciting events, as well as a key race meeting on the winter calendar. I am proud Ipswich City Council continues to be a major sponsor of this historic event.

“I’m sure thousands of people are looking forward to celebrating this fantastic milestone by gathering at the track to enjoy the races, catch up with friends and put their best foot forward in Fashions on the Field.”

Mayor Harding said the Festival of Horsepower program also includes a mouth-watering catalogue of must-see motorsport events.

“No city loves motorsport more than Ipswich and we are proud to once again host one of the world’s biggest drag-racing meets, the Gulf Western Oil Winternationals, at Willowbank Raceway on 4-7 June,” Mayor Harding said.

“The best of Australian GT racing will do battle at Queensland Raceway for the GT Festival Queensland on the weekend of 12-14 June.

“And the fun doesn’t stop there as the Australian Superbike Championship season comes to a thrilling end with the title-deciding final round at Queensland Raceway on 26-28 June.”

Economic and Cultural Development Committee Deputy Chairperson Councillor Marnie Doyle said other Festival of Horsepower favourites are returning this year.

“The family-friendly car meet, Cruise the Night, at Queensland Raceway on 6 June and Western Star Family Race Day harness racing event at Marburg Showgrounds on 21 June are events much loved by the community,” Cr Doyle said.

“The Festival of Horsepower is one of many annual festivals bringing economic, social and cultural benefits to Ipswich, alongside Planes, Trains and Autos, SPARK Ipswich Arts Festival, Galvanized – A Festival of Heritage and Christmas in Ipswich.

“More than 60,000 attended the Festival of Horsepower last year, with many coming from outside the city to take part in the festivities in a major boost for our tourism industry.

“These events enhance Ipswich’s reputation as vibrant city where people can come for unforgettable experiences and major events.”

For the full calendar of Festival of Horsepower events, visit the Ipswich Festivals website.

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