Melbourne Cup highlights

Wet weather wasn’t going to stop the who’s who of fashion in their heels

There wasn’t a dry guest in sight, but that didn’t stop Cross Counter prevailing at the Nov. 6 Melbourne Cup in Flemington. “It’s a huge thrill to win this race,” said jockey Kerrin Mcevoy, who rode the three-yearold across the winning line, claiming a $7.3 million prize. Despite being the most inexperienced runner, Cross Counter swooped down the outside to snatch victory by a teeth-clenchingly narrow margin.

Although punters kept their eyes on the track, fashion enthusiasts averted their attention to the frocks and hats trackside. Bright jewel tones made a colourful contrast from the strict monochromatic outfits of Derby Day three days before. Everything from wide brims to gem-encrusted headbands brought life to a dreary afternoon.

Guest of honour, Australian actress and former

Dynasty star Nathalie Kelley, was over an hour late to the Cup due to flooding – nonetheless she made sure she made a splash in the Mumm Marquee after popping a bottle of Champagne to the celebrate the occasion.

Someone who didn’t fill her glass up on the day was Kris Smith’s girlfriend Sarah Boulazeris, who cradled her growing baby bump throughout the day. The pregnant personal trainer said she was doing well in her heels, but couldn’t wait to get out of them. She also revealed the pair are expecting their first child together on Dec. 17. “It’s a Christmas baby!” she tells WHO.

Fresh off his own competition, The Bachelor’s Nick Cummins struggled to make it through media after being mobbed by fans. Meanwhile, TV star Andy Lee managed to overcome a few hiccups – he got stuck on the way to the Cup, as protesters had blocked the entry. And it’s a good thing he and his model girlfriend Rebecca Harding were granted access, because the loved-up couple picked the winning horse!

“I heard the weather was going to be bad – so I got my hi-vis out,” former Bachelorette Georgia Love tells WHO of her suit by Effie Kats. Boyfriend Lee Elliot wore a suit by MJ Bale. Elle Macpherson opted for an all-white ensemble by Melbourne designer Toni Maticevski on Derby Day. Radio personality Andy Lee and his model girlfriend Rebecca Harding donned neutral tones. “I thought I’d go all futuristic this year,” Neighbours star Jodi Gordon says of her metallic number by Lillian Khallouf.

Amid pregnancy speculation, Lara Worthington donned a lacy white outfit on race day.

British singer Sam Smith was all smiles ahead of his performance on the big day.

Former Dynasty actress Nathalie Kelley added a pop of colour to her black and white outfit with a pair of strappy red pumps.

Sports met politics as Julie Bishop stopped to take a photo alongside her partner David Panton and running champion Usain Bolt. Former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins opted for a simple look this year paired with traditional headwear.

Myer ambassador Elyse Knowles dressed for sunny weather and accessorised with a wide brimmed straw hat.