SeaLink celebrates two decades in the saddle supporting the Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival

SeaLink South Australia proudly continues its multi-year partnership with the Kangaroo Island Racing Club in 2026, as naming rights sponsor of the SeaLink Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival. The partnership is entering 20 years of continuous support for one of South Australia’s most iconic regional events.

Held each year at the picturesque Cygnet River Racecourse, the Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival or commonly known as the KI Cup, is one of the state’s most anticipated, and the island’s largest event. Attracting thousands of visitors to the island, the KI Cup delivers strong economic benefits for local tourism operators, hospitality businesses, and community groups.

Racing action on Kangaroo Island officially began on Saturday 17 January with the Cygnet at the River, marking the start of the racing program that culminates in the SeaLink Kangaroo Island Cup Carnival on 19 February and 21 February at Cygnet River Racecourse.

Across the Carnival weekend, visitors can enjoy a vibrant program of trackside experiences, including Fashions on the Field, the Kangaroo Island Spirits Long Lunch Marquee featuring three-course gourmet dining and beverages, and private marquee options, creating a celebration that brings together country racing, local flavour and the island’s strong sense of community.

SeaLink plays a critical role in delivering the Carnival. Each year, SeaLink provides the essential ferry travel and logistics needed to transport up to 90 horses, along with trainers, jockeys, strappers, horse trucks and floats between the mainland and Kangaroo Island. In addition, SeaLink also supports the Carnival’s advertising and promotion, helping to build awareness and drive ticket sales. This contribution and support help ensure the Carnival can be staged safely, efficiently, and at scale on the island.

Tracy Croft, General Manager SeaLink South Australia, said SeaLink’s investment reflects a long-standing commitment to Kangaroo Island and the events that bring the community together.

“The Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival is the Island’s biggest event of the year and a highlight of the island’s events calendar, as well as a major driver of visitation during the summer period.

“For more than 20 years SeaLink has worked closely with organisers to support the complex logistics and costs involved in moving horses, equipment and people to and from the island, helping ensure the Carnival continues to grow while remaining accessible and strongly connected to the local community,” Ms Croft said.

The Carnival continues to attract upwards of 3,600 visitors from across Australia each year, many of whom stay on the island for up to 10 days, contributing to visitor spending across accommodation, dining, and tourism experiences. The event also showcases Kangaroo Island produce and local operators, with island food and beverage businesses featuring prominently throughout the Racing Carnival.

Shane Pope, Chairperson of Kangaroo Island Racing Club, said SeaLink’s ongoing partnership is fundamental to the Carnival’s success.

“The Kangaroo Island Racing Carnival is more than a racing event; it’s the island’s biggest annual celebration.”

“SeaLink’s continued support allows us to welcome thousands of visitors each year and deliver genuine economic benefits for local businesses, tourism operators, and community groups. Without this partnership, the logistics and costs of staging a major racing event on an island would make the Carnival simply not viable,” Mr Pope said.

Ms Croft said SeaLink was proud to continue supporting an event that delivers benefits to the community well beyond race day.

“Events like the Racing Carnival showcase the unique offerings of Kangaroo Island, and we’re proud to stand alongside the Kangaroo Island Racing Club and the broader community as the Carnival enters another exciting year,” Ms Croft said.

Ticket and event information is available on the Kangaroo Island Racing Club website.

For more information about ferry services to Kangaroo Island, visit www.sealink.com.au.