Western Australian gold shines in 2025 Melbourne Cup

With the Melbourne Cup just around the corner, there’s an extra reason for Western Australians to take pride in this year’s race.

For the first time in its 165-year history, the iconic Lexus Melbourne Cup has been crafted from Western Australian gold — mined by Westgold Resources in the state’s Goldfields.

The connection brings together two great Australian traditions: WA’s rich gold-mining heritage and one of the nation’s most celebrated sporting events.

Westgold’s gold began its journey deep in Western Australia’s heartland before travelling more than 3,000 kilometres across the country. At ABC Refinery, the gold was refined into pure bullion before being shaped and assembled by the expert craftspeople at WJ Sanders in Sydney.

Over 250 hours of meticulous work went into the trophy’s creation, with every element — from spinning and soldering to the final polish — completed by hand. The 2025 Cup is made from 44 pieces of Westgold’s gold, showcasing the skill, precision and collaboration that define Australia’s gold industry.

For Westgold Resources, being part of this year’s Melbourne Cup marks a milestone. It’s the first time Western Australian gold has been used to make the nation’s most recognisable sporting trophy, highlighting the state’s world-class production and the people who make it possible.

“To be involved in the 2025 Melbourne Cup is an absolute privilege,” said Westgold Resources CEO Wayne Bramwell.

“Everyone in the business is so excited that this year is the first year when West Australian gold has been used to construct the Cup. The majority of all the gold in Australia is mined in Western Australia, and gold has been a key catalyst in developing Western Australia from the get-go.”

The Cup’s journey also celebrates the communities behind the industry. During its national tour, the trophy returned to WA, visiting towns such as Kambalda and Kalgoorlie, where mining has shaped generations of families and local economies.

A golden connection

This collaboration between Westgold Resources, ABC Refinery and WJ Sanders is a reminder of how deeply gold is woven into Australia’s story — not just through its economic importance, but through its presence in the symbols and traditions we share.

From mine to refinery to the jeweller’s bench, the Melbourne Cup’s creation is a showcase of Australian skill and teamwork. It’s a proud moment for Western Australia’s gold industry, and a timely reminder that every great achievement starts with the work done in our regions.

As the race that stops the nation approaches, the Melbourne Cup will carry a piece of Western Australia’s story, brought to life through the dedication of its miners, refiners and craftspeople.