What’s new at Flemington – Melbourne Cup Carnival by Donna Demaio
The Melbourne Cup Carnival is preparing to welcome more than 300 thousand people to Flemington Racecourse for four days of racing and let’s face it, partying, at the track.
A new ten thousand square metre precinct called The Park is expected to appeal to young and old racegoers, with a range of fashion, food and music offerings for members of the public. Here’s a few highlights of the enclosure that some are already comparing to the exclusive Birdcage. And entry is free.
FOOD
Shane Delia and Daniel Wilson Photo: Donna Demaio
Piling up the burgers and kebabs are Shane Delia (Biggie Smalls) and Daniel Wilson (Huxtaburger), respectively.
The super chefs are preparing for the hungry hordes who will descend on The Park’s patch of lawn, searching for a feed.
WATCH a little preview video of The Park below
There’s also spicy fun with Hanoi Hannah and Saigon Sally and dessert (well, you can have ice cream anytime right?) Gelato Messina and Doughnut Time.
There’s a picnic-style hamper from Primo Deli which is packed full of sliced meats, cheese and crackers. And you’ll get a little song and dance form the Bearded Bakers with their sweet Knafeh (like a cr?me brulee but better).
DRINK
The VRC has a splendid, super stylish pop-up style marquee called Pony Bar. Snaffle a seat and watch the glorious peeps stroll by.
Yellowglen Terrace celebrates its love of bubbles and social media with a cool space, draped in gold and host Rebecca Panozzah.
Rebeccah Panozza Photo: Donna Demaio
James Boag’s Premium Bar and the Cocktail Caravan Park round out the over-18’s treats while the Lavazza Coffee Bar will be roasting up thousands of caffeine hits.
Barista and Melbourne footballer Max Gawn Photo: Donna Demaio
MUSIC
Marcia Hines is performing disco tunes on the largest ever entertainment stage built at the track on Melbourne Cup day.
Seriously, does it get any better than that? Other artists include The Rubens, pop sensation Betty Who, three piece SAFIA and on Stakes Day ? there’ll be free fun for children.
The Melbourne Comedy Festival will present comedy, mime and circus and YouTube sensation William Singe is heading there too.
FASHION
MFOF Ambassador Stephanie Smith Photo: Donna Demaio
For those searching for Myer Fashions on the Field – the enormous marquee is now located at The Park and no longer near the Birdcage enclosure.
No doubt, there’ll be fashionistas hunting down buggy rides between the Birdcage and The Park as they seek to flit around to watch this year’s entrants.
MFOF ambassador Stephanie Smith is super keen to check out the latest looks and styles.
PAMPERING AND OTHER STUFF
Beauty giant L’Oreal Paris has set up the cordons for the massive queues that will undoubtedly form at the Powder Room where people can get spruced up with fresh lippie or get their hair done.
The Powder Room Photo: Donna Demaio
The fun of a make-over is great while everyone that goes through receives a L’Oreal Paris goodie bag with mascara, lipstick and more valued at around 90 dollars.
The Ferris Wheel Photo: Donna Demaio
And for something truly novel and perhaps unexpected: there’s a vintage Ferris Wheel and carousel for a hint of retro fun and a superb track view. And there’s stretches of lawn, numerous tables and heaps of seating so people can indulge in a favourite trackside past time: people watching.
In case you’re wondering where The Precinct has gone. The enclosure, very popular with interstaters and overseas visitors, is now on the front lawn near the Parade Ring.
The custom built temporary grandstand will give uninterrupted views of the track so those attending actually see a horse. Good call.