Cup party on track
Casino-resort garden bash a sell-out favourite
THE old-fashioned garden party is getting a Ville makeover for this year’s Melbourne Cup celebrations as revellers look forward to a day on the lawns.
The now sold-out event, which includes the iconic cocktail in The Pavilion, is a chance for racegoers to enjoy the race that stops the nation along with picnicstyle canapes, traditional lawn games and Chambord cocktails.
But for those who missed out on tickets, there’s still a chance to join the afterparty on the lawn from 3pm or enjoy a more relaxed day of nibbles and drinks at the Quarterdeck.
And while coronavirus threatened to derail the biggest race day of the year for all Australians, general manager of marketing Emily Roebuck said they’ve come up with innovative solutions to ensure a great time.
“With the restrictions on dancing, we decided to trade the dancefloor for traditional lawn games, which I think people are really going to enjoy,” she said.
“We’re pretty confident that although there are a few little changes this year, it’s still going to be a fantastic day and everyone’s going to have a great time.
“What’s encouraging for us is that most race day events across town are sold out and I think there’s generally a huge demand from the community for events of all kind.”
And it will be a very different looking Cup, not just in Townsville.
Crowds in Melbourne will not be allowed to attend the track at Flemington due to COVID-19 restrictions.
In a speech at the Melbourne Cup Carnival media launch, VRC chairman Amanda Elliott said the Victoria Racing Club remained grateful racing had been able to go ahead.
“But we are so disappointed that this year, hundreds of thousands of spectators are unable to enjoy all of this,” she said.
“We certainly look forward to the day when we can welcome everyone back to Flemington racecourse.”
For many punters it’s the only time they’ll put a bet down on horse racing through the year, with where to put your money often a minefield.
Since the Melbourne Cup was first run in 1861, favourites have won the race 34 times including most recently with Fiorente at $7 in 2013.
The shortest-priced favourite was Phar Lap who won at 11/8 on in 1930.
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