Canberrans who can’t make the trip for the Melbourne Cup can still enjoy the race, the fashion, entertainment and food at locations in the ACT. Here is some inspiration…

AUSTRALIA’s most prestigious annual thoroughbred horse race, the Melbourne Cup, will “stop the nation” yet again at 3pm on Tuesday, November 7. 

Each year the stakes get higher, with the first Melbourne Cup winner receiving a gold watch in 1861, which has since increased to about $8 million in prize money.

The 3200-metre race started, and continues, on the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne.

Celebrate Melbourne Cup in tranquility and sophistication

THE Hyatt Hotel’s “The Garden Party” Melbourne Cup Day celebration will include a glass of Taittinger Champagne on arrival, says director of sales and marketing, Michael Sarino.

“It also includes three hours of unlimited beverages by The Canberra Distillery and BentSpoke Brewing Company,” he says.

“And a gourmet selection of Australian grazing and food stations, from 12pm to 3.30pm, for $170 per person.

“Highlights include live entertainment, sweepstakes and incredible best-dressed prizes including overnight stays at Park Hyatt Sydney, Park Hyatt Melbourne, Grand Hyatt Melbourne and Hyatt Centric Melbourne.”

Michael says Hyatt Hotel Canberra is a blend of 1920s mystique and contemporary Art Deco design.

“Hyatt Hotel Canberra was established to provide luxury accommodation in the heart of the nation’s capital, and it continues to uphold this tradition with its exceptional service and facilities,” he says.

“As you explore its tranquil gardens, luxurious accommodation and elegant dining options, you’ll be surrounded by nearly a century of history. From our early days as Hostel No. 1 to our current status as one of Canberra’s premier hotels, the Hyatt Hotel Canberra has always been a place of sophistication and relaxation.

“The common thread that binds our team is a love of the industry, and a unified goal to care for each other and our guests, so they can all be their best.”

Hyatt Hotel Canberra, 120 Commonwealth Avenue, Canberra. Call 6269 8901, or visit parkhyattcanberra.com.au

Fashion, dance and over-the-top after party fun

QT Canberra is celebrating a racing renaissance where it’s all about OTT fun, says marketing and communications manager Beck Jones.

“At QT Canberra, you’re invited to express yourself however you see fit,” she says.

“Offering one-of-a-kind and award-winning dining and accommodation, QT Canberra is for those who have a keen eye for the finer things.”

For the Melbourne Cup, Beck says QT will be running QT Fashions on the Field, with three awards up for grabs.

“Prizes include designer Kevin Murphy products and accommodation in Sydney’s favourite boutique hotel, QT Sydney,” she says.

“The celebration will be in full swing at Capitol Bar & Grill from 11.30am, we’re talking drinks at the ready and the Baker Boys live on deck.

“The QT Canberra team are driven by their genuine passion and love for what they do.

“Whether it is the front-of-house team or brigade in the kitchen, everyone brings a dedication and desire to be their best, and provide an incredible experience for guests.”

Beck says QT Canberra is the home of the unofficial ACT Melbourne Cup after party.

“From 3pm guests will be invited to sashay their way to the L15 QT Lounge, for sunset sips and to dance the night away,” she says.

QT Canberra, 1 London Circuit, Canberra. Call 6247 6244, or visit qthotels.com.au

Race day with a relaxed touch

MELBOURNE Cup at THE Lounge Bar at Rydges Canberra is a more relaxed affair than the traditional cup-day soiree, says area director of sales and marketing Natalie Graham.

“For us, the focus is on incredible food, delicious drinks and the race, of course,” she says.

“We know that not everyone wants to take the entire day off for the event, so we’re having more of a long lunch.

“Kicking off at 1pm we are offering 2.5 hours of chef-engineered canapes and a 2.5-hour beverage package. We’ll have screens across the venue showing all of the race-day action.”

Natalie says the lounge bar opened in 2022 after an extensive refurbishment of the entire hotel.

“It was designed to present a sophisticated and relaxed bar for guests and external patrons alike, with a large outdoor terrace to enjoy the afternoon sun in the warmer months,” she says.

“Hospitality is our business, our team thrives on providing the best service to our guests.

“Our Melbourne Cup tickets are available via Eventbrite.”

Rydges Canberra, 17 Canberra Avenue, Forrest. Call 6295 3144, or visit rydges.com