GALLERY: Melbourne Cup fever comes to town

GUSTY conditions didn’t dampen Melbourne Cup celebrations in Toowoomba today, as hundreds flocked to Clifford Park Racecourse to watch the race that stops a nation.

GUSTY conditions didn't dampen Melbourne Cup celebrations in Toowoomba today, as hundreds flocked to Clifford Park Racecourse to watch the race that stops a nation.

Floral fashions and bright colours were all the rage track side, as women kept a close eye on their fascinators in the breeze. At 2pm, punters filled the function rooms to watch Vow and Declare, ridden by Craig Williams, stride to victory in the Lexus Melbourne Cup.

This was followed by the finals of Clifford Park's Fashions on the Field. Corey Bellert won the title for the men and Leigh Quinlan took home the award for top millinery. Karen Wade was voted best dressed and Cheryl-Lee Beaton runner-up.

"I'm a mum who works full time, I enjoy fashion and this was an opportunity to dress up and indulge a bit," Ms Wade said of her win.

"I love the Melbourne Cup and spring racing, it's a fun time of the year, the weather is perfect.

Ms Wade is no stranger to the stage having taken home Fashions on the Field wins at the Weetwood and Melbourne Cup at Clifford Park in 2016.

WINNING STYLES: Celebrating their Fashions on the Field wins at Clifford Park’s Melbourne Cup celebrations are (from left) Leigh Quinlan, judge Amanda Thurbin, Karen Wade and Cheryl-Lee Beaton.