It’s the “sport of kings” that brings to mind the royals and Julia Roberts and it’s on its way to Bundaberg following today’s official launch of the Pop Up Polo Series.
From adrenaline packed polo action to fine food and chic marquees the event will be held at the Bundaberg Recreational Precinct on August 31.
Series ambassador and former Miss Universe Australia Kimberley Busteed said it was exciting to bring the series to Bundaberg for the first time.
“It’s so exciting that we’re now actually bringing this kind of event to regional Queensland because we need it and we want it,” Ms Busteed said.
“The players come from all over Australia, in fact last year we had a couple of international players as well.
“The thing about polo is that it’s such an exciting event to witness and to be a part of and it’s something these areas have never really seen before.
“When we think of polo we think of the royals, we think of Prince William and Prince Harry.
“You’re at the frontline of a sport that’s so incredibly fast paced and the skill of the players and the skill of the horse and they’re right there.”
She said it was an event not to be missed, even for those who know very little about what has been dubbed the “sport of kings”.
“There’s plenty happening on the day; there’s fashions on the field and the stomping of the divots; most people would think of Pretty Woman when they think of that event.
“It’s exactly like you would imagine Julia Roberts did.
“There are so many different tiered options as well.
“You can go all out for the VIP function which is about $300 and includes everything you could ever imagine and then you’ve got the general admin as well.
“Just grab a bunch of people and head out, it’s an amazing day out.”
Region’s food bowl status helped secure Pop Up Polo
The event was launched to sell-out crowds in Rockhampton last year and Ms Busteed said the region’s agricultural reputation played a big role in Bundaberg’s selection for the expansion of the event.
Event chefs will be working with local producers to display the best the region has to offer.
“As much as polo is about the sport and fashion it is equally about the food.
“Being such a great food bowl we’re really spoilt for choice here.”
Mayor Jack Dempsey said it was exciting to have such a unique event held in the Bundaberg Region.
“It’s a chance to get out and showcase the beautiful Bundaberg Region and see some champions in polo visit,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“It’s a great credit to the organisers being able to select Bundaberg as a site and we’ve embraced that but now we need the community to get on and get those final tickets.
“We want a sold out event to have the opportunity for this particular event for the future.
“It’s not just the financial boost it’s the credibility of this region to be able to host significant events.”
He said it would be a lot of fun with another exciting aspect of the event being the Queensland v New South Wales State of Origin showdown.
“Whether it be on the rugby league field or the polo paddock we want to make sure we get on top of New South Wales and we need the support of everyone here in Bundaberg.”
Fashions on the field a focus for event
Ms Busteed said there would be fashions on the field and the men’s and women’s dash with thousands of dollars in prizes to be won.
“Who doesn’t love an opportunity to dress up?
“Polo fashion is a little bit different. We’re so excited to bring it to Bundy.
“I’m a country girl myself. For us to go out and experience these high calibre events we always had to travel outside of our regional towns.
“It’s time and I can’t wait to finally unroll it here in Bundy.”
If the previous Rockhampton events are anything to go by Ms Busteed said Bundaberg residents should get in quick to secure their tickets.
“It was really the event of the year I would say. I know that’s a big call but I know it’s going to be the same for Bundy as well.
“It was probably bigger and better than we thought it could be and that is just a reflection on how much the regional towns are wanting an event like this.
“I would get in quick so that you don’t miss out.”
Bundaberg Pop Up Polo is delivered by Events Queensland and supported by Urban Polo Australia and Bundaberg Regional Council.
Tickets are available online now.
The event was approved by Council in a meeting earlier this year.
