Mackay apprentice Shae Nielson will always cherish that she played a key role in a unique slice of Queensland racing history.

Emerald trainer Trevor Williams was dreaming of a city starter with stable favourite Starhattan but he will happily take a Townsville Amateur Cup as a consolation prize.

Han Dynasty, ‘Rodeo Thursday’ and a new apprentice jockey – it is a combination that is hard to hold out at this time of year.

Apprentice jockey Olivia Kendal had more reasons than most to celebrate her maiden provincial winner at her first day out in the "big time" at Townsville's Cluden Park on Saturday.