Chief Minister Michael Gunner won’t attend Chief Minister’s Cup at Fannie Bay racecourse today

CHIEF Minister Michael Gunner will not attend the Chief Minister’s Cup today, despite him traditionally assisting in the presentation of the cup and the Fannie Bay racecourse falling within his electorate

Chief Minister Michael Gunner will not attend the Chief Minister’s Cup today, despite him traditionally assisting in the presentation of the cup and the Fannie Bay racecourse falling within his electorate. Picture Che Chorley

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CHIEF Minister Michael Gunner will not attend the Chief Minister’s Cup today, despite him traditionally assisting in the presentation of the cup and the Fannie Bay racecourse falling within his electorate.

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Mr Gunner said at this stage he would be busy dealing with the coronavirus.

“As Chief Minister, I’ve got a fair bit on my plate and dealing with coronavirus comes first,” he said.

“The carnival is a ripper event and it supports hundreds of local jobs. If you can get along, you definitely should.”

Mr Gunner also missed last week’s launch of the new $12 million Darwin Turf Club grandstand, as he was travelling in Alice Springs.

Sponsors will present the trophy at this year’s event.

Darwin Turf Club chief executive Brad Morgan said: “The Darwin Turf Club invited the Chief Minister to attend the Chief Minister’s Cup this Saturday, as we do every year.

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“We know Michel Gunner has a big job, and while we will be disappointed to not have him there, it will not detract from this great event.”