Glamour, excitement and action of Melbourne Cup Day

(By Rawanne Fadoool and Alysa Greer – Bond University Journalism Students)

MORE than 500 people put on their finest and attended Hotel CBD for the Melbourne Cup celebrations, last week.

Young and old gathered around the televisions for the race cheering so loud that no one knew who won the race until they calmed for the announcement at the end.

Varsity Lakes resident Nicole Harrison said she had dressed up for the event.
“Everyone is dressed so well and it is exciting to take pleasure in the event itself here,” she said.

Miss Harrison said she had never been able to attend the Melbourne Cup celebrations. “[But] I have always wanted to fly to Melbourne for the races and for the gala,” she said.

Hotel CBD manager Liza Jones said CBD was filled to capacity.
“Approximately between 500 to 700 people were here,’ she said.
“Melbourne Cup is one of the biggest events we hold here.
“I had all 40 staff members work here on the day.”

Mrs Liza Jones said the CBD had been preparing for the Melbourne Cup celebrations six months in advance.

“The CBD has already booked for entertainment for next year’s Melbourne Cup races,” she said.

Horse Shocking, number 21 took the 2009 Melbourne Cup Trophy home.