Chris James, manager of betting systems at ACTTAB, says that last year Canberra punters spent a little over $2m on bets for the Melbourne Cup race, with a total of $3.4m, including all races.
“Given the way it’s trending so far, I think the figures will be up slightly this year,” he says.
“It’s always hard to say; if the favourites win then people are winning in general, but if the longshots win then people don’t tend to have the funds to reinvest.”
“Even though the Cup is run at Flemington, we get huge crowds at Thoroughbred Park for the atmosphere and the local racing, and all the excitement that provides,” she says.
“We are also seeing a lot of employers taking their staff out to thank them for the year’s work. Particularly in the construction industry this year. So all the single ladies – there may be some single tradies at the races!
“Thoroughbred Park is a wonderful place to be for the Melbourne Cup; people have taken the time to get ready, so everyone is looking great, and Fashions on the Field brings the competitors out.
“There’s also the food, the jockey colours and, of course, watching the horses come down the straight is always exciting.”
As fashionistas work on getting their racing look right in readiness for the race that stops the nation, Briony says that Fashions on the Field has been growing more popular in recent years.
She says they’re seeing more young people getting up on stage.
“Fashions on the Field is very regimented, with certain strict rules, and it’s great to see younger people taking that on board,” she says.
This year the Couples category has been dropped, which means the prizes for the Classic Ladies’ Racewear and Classic Men’s Racewear categories have increased substantially.
This year’s Cup has attracted a large corporate element, with Briony saying the course is experiencing a huge return clientele.
The marquees this year will be better than ever, Briony says, with the designers “going all out” with new products and decorations.
Another area in which people are going all out is hats, says local milliner Christine Waring.
“Generally, over the past few years fashion trends in hats and headpieces have been towards smaller and more sculptural pieces, particularly taller designs worn with their elevated trims more centred and towards the front,” she says.
Melbourne Cup Day, Thoroughbred Park, Tuesday, November 4. Gates open at 9.30am.
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