The Melbourne Cup Carnival leapt out of the barriers in sensational style at today’s AAMI Victoria Derby Day with legendary trainer Bart Cummings’ taking out the first race, the Inglis Carbine Club Stakes, with Lunar Rise.
Nicole Kidman looked stunning in a L’Wren Scott dress and Stephen Jones hat on a flying visit to Flemington as a guest of Swisse Vitamins.
The first train from Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station at 8.15am started a steady stream of enthusiastic racegoers arriving by public transport, road, boat and helicopter.
According to a spokesperson from Metro, more than 34,000 patrons had arrived at Flemington by train at midday.
Throughout the morning, members and their guests rapidly arrived at the Nursery Car Park to enjoy the traditional fun and fashions of the first day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
Anticipation is building for the 50th year of the Myer Fashions on the Field competition – for both men and women – with more than 169 registrations for the Women’s Racewear competition lodged on course this morning.
The Bureau of Metrology is predicting a partly cloudy, dry afternoon – perfect weather for racing fans to soak up the top class race fields.
At 1.00pm It’s A Dundeel was favourite for the AAMI Victoria Derby ( to be run at 3.00pm) with The Tab offering $3.60 for a $1 win bet.