Public Holiday Arrangements in Lieu of Melbourne Cup Day 2026

Published on 31 July 2026

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The Hon. Natalie Suleyman MP, Minister for Small and Family Business, has approved Hindmarsh Shire Council’s request to substitute alternative days for the 2026 Melbourne Cup Day public holiday in Nhill and Rainbow.

A full day public holiday has been declared in lieu of Melbourne Cup:

  • in the township of Rainbow and the localities of Kenmare and Albacutya for the Rainbow Show on Tuesday 13 October 2026.
  • in the township of Nhill and the localities of Little Desert, Gerang Gerung, Kiata, Glenlee, Netherby, Lorquon, Yanac, and Broughton on Thursday 15 October 2026.

The remaining areas within the Shire will observe a full day public holiday on Melbourne Cup Day Tuesday 03 November 2026.

This is a great opportunity for Hindmarsh residents to fully enjoy the experience of their local show and appreciate the planning and preparation of the respective A & P Societies in each town.

The Dimboola Show will also be held on Saturday 17 October 2026, and the Jeparit Show on Sunday 18 October 2026.


Monica Revell
Chief Executive Officer