Melbourne Cup gets a taste of the tropics

The Cairns region will play host to one of Australian sport’s most recognisable icons next week, when the Melbourne Cup arrives as part of a pre-Spring Carnival tour.

Mayor Bob Manning will welcome the Melbourne Cup at a public event on the Cairns Esplanade on the evening of Saturday, August 11.

“It is fitting that the Melbourne Cup will be arriving in Cairns on the day of the Cairns Cup,” Cr Manning said.

“We invite racegoers to extend their race day by coming down the Esplanade after 5.30pm to show off their racewear, enjoy a sausage sizzle and have your photo taken with one of Australia’s favourite sporting trophies.

“Even if you’re not going to the races, there is no reason why you can’t dress up anyway and come and join in the event.”

A free barbecue and live music will be on offer and all members of the public are welcome to attend.

“The Melbourne Cup is a truly iconic piece of Australia’s sporting culture,” Cr Manning said.

“We feel honoured that the Victorian Racing Carnival has chosen to send the Cup here to be part of our racing carnival and to include our region it the tour.”

In a first for the Cup, it will take a trip to Port Douglas then out to the reef for a special underwater photo shoot, before heading back to Cairns for the Cairns Cup After Party. 

On Sunday, August 12, the Cup will make a few impromptu stops around Cairns, before heading to Cannon Park Racecourse to help celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Fashions on the Field High Tea in the Silks Pavilion.  At the Esplanade reception, prizes will be on offer for the best race outfit and best headwear.

What:  Melbourne Cup welcome - includes photo opportunities with the famous trophy, free sausage sizzle, live music, prizes for best race outfit and best headwear.

When:  from 5:30pm, Saturday 11 August 2012

Where:  Western Events Lawn, beside the Lagoon, Cairns Esplanade