A model ambassador

Although Brisbane-born Georgina Burke left Australia when she was 20 to live and work overseas as a model, there is one thing that she misses the most from home: horses. Burke has carved out an incredible career overseas, including appearing in Sports Illustrated’s iconic swimsuit issue, shooting for Ralph Lauren and working with Seafolly as their first global talent to advocate for size diversity.

For thirteen years, she’s navigated the ever-shifting tides of the fashion world, but it’s the serene moments spent with her family and horses that truly ground her. 

“Every time I come home, there’s nothing more I look forward to than horse riding because it takes me away from the crazy world that I live in, in New York.”

Horses have been a constant in Burke’s life since her early days, a source of solace and support during a challenging period. Bullied in high school, she found refuge in the world of equestrian riding. “My whole world was horses, and I couldn’t wait for each weekend. The horses were almost like therapy,” she confides. This created a deep connection that made her a natural choice as a Melbourne Cup Carnival ambassador.

During the VRC’s photo shoot, Burke had the privilege of working alongside none other than the legendary Makybe Diva, an experience she cherishes. “What a treat. She was so placid and so beautiful and gorgeous.” The equine world holds a special place in her heart, and her passion for it shines through her role as an ambassador.

It’s not just the horses that excite Burke about the Carnival; it’s the fashion, too. With an enthusiasm for bold statements, she encourages attendees to embrace the glamour. “Big hats, big colours, the bigger, the better! Paying tribute to Lillian Frank, you must wear a big hat!” As a pioneer in the body-positive movement, Burke uses her platform to stand up against bullies and inspire confidence. For her, feeling comfortable in your own skin is the ultimate preparation for the races. “When it came to choosing an outfit, I just wanted to feel confident, and that’s the main thing.”

Burke will attend Sofitel Girls’ Day Out, Penfolds Victoria Derby Day and Lexus Melbourne Cup Day, where she will be part of the judging panel for the Melbourne Cup Carnival Fashions on the Field.