Family, food and fashion zones in Melbourne Cup shake-up
Big changes are coming to the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington, with plans to dial up the party atmosphere of the race that stops a nation.
Victoria
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Families and fashion will be at the centre of a major revamp of the Melbourne Cup Carnival precinct at Flemington this year.
Spectators will be brought closer to the track and new areas introduced around the track to dial up the party atmosphere of the race that stops a nation.
The Herald Sun can reveal a dedicated family area will be unveiled as a green space in The Park precinct.
Headline music acts performing during the week will strut their stuff in a new entertainment zone at the end of the Flemington straight to be known as The Elms, accessible to anyone with a general admission ticket.
The iconic Fashions on the Field will be returned to its original location on the Flemington front lawn, with an all-new enclosed stage positioned in among the action, close to The Birdcage.
For the first time in years, the infield will be opened to the public, offering one of the most unique vantage points of the track, next to the winning post.
And The Nursery will be open on Victoria Derby Day, Crown Oaks Day and Champions Stakes Day but converted into extra carparking on Melbourne Cup Day.
Victoria Racing Club chief executive Kylie Rogers said:there was a “notable’’ increase in younger fans among the 285,000 Cup Carnival fans last year and preparations were “in full swing to welcome even bigger crowds.’’
“The new precinct design has been made to maximise the opportunity for all to experience and enjoy all that is on offer,’’ she said.
The Park will be transformed into a new family-friendly, equine-focused zone with a Living Legends Homestead pop-up a key feature.
Fans will be able to meet heroes of the turf and indulge in Devonshire tea.
“With an abundance of seating, amenities, food trucks and kids’ entertainment, it’s where
legends live, young dreams are sparked, and lifelong memories begin,’’ she said.
Ms Rogers said The Elms would be “reimagined … to blend social energy, culinary culture and live entertainment.
“The music on the Live Stage is set to go up another notch this year with a soon-to-be-
announced line up of international and Australian stars,’’ she said.
And a TAB Clubhouse would be opened in the middle of the track.
one of the most unique vantage points of the track, right next to the winning post.
“Our vision is to open up more of Flemington for racing fans, and The Infield provides one of
the best spots on the track to get right up close to the action while enjoying cracking
hospitality,’’ she said.
Originally published as Family, food and fashion zones in Melbourne Cup shake-up
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