The cup itself was flown in by LifeFlight, who were then presented with a cheque for $15,880 by Malouf Auto Group.

Taking out first place in a close finish for the cup was Chestnut Road ridden by Terrence Hill for owner Valda Crapp, beating All Fives ridden by Dan Ballard and Knowing Me (NZ) ridden by Tamar Tincknell.

In Race 1 for Malouf Auto Group and LifeFlight Maiden Plate over 1100m Sirtime ridden by Dan Ballard took first place, beating Grandzone Rocket and Thank You for a prize pool of $7000.

In Race 2 the Brown Brothers Ratings Band 0-50 Handicap over 1100m for a prize pool of $8000, first place was Dragon Rocket ridden by Steven Galvin for John Manzelmann.

In Race 3, the Downer Australia Benchmark 60 Handicap over 1200m for a prize pool of $9000, Northern Storm ridden by Aaron Spradau for trainer Jay Morris beat Craiglea Swift ridden by Timothy Brummell.

In Race 4 Popeys Diesel Services Coppermart Open Quality for a prize pool of $13,750, Tamara Tincknell guided Golden Meteor to a win for trainer Steven Royes. 

In Race 5 for a prize pool of $8000 Diurnal Tiger ridden by Terrence Hill for Tanya Parry came first.

Race Club President Dan Ballard thanked all the individuals involved, via his Facebook page.

“I would like to say a big 'thank you' to everyone that helped make Saturday's Mount Isa Cup a huge success.

“The committee members of the Mount Isa Race Club and the league of friends and family that always put their hands up to help, our wonderful sponsors that have thrown their support behind the club, the volunteers, participants, workers, our members and patrons.

“We are stoked to have had well over 1200 attendees and I hope that everyone had a fantastic day.

“Thank you all and I hope you are all getting ready for a great Mailman Express in a couple of months!”

Boulia country musician Ali S performed a lively set with his full band, inspiring a spot of dancing on the green at Buchanan Park.