This year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival is set to be bigger than ever with backing from the Allan Labor Government helping to bring a new entertainment and food precinct at Flemington to life.
The world-class carnival will give center stage to the finest racing, entertainment, fashion, culture, food and wine across four premium race days – Derby Day, the Melbourne Cup, Oaks Day and Stakes Day.
The Labor Government is contributing $900,000 towards the trackside entertainment alongside the Victoria Racing Club who are providing more than $1.2 million for The Park and Elms precincts.
Four new entertainment zones will cater for different patrons like younger racegoers, the tech savvy, foodies, first-time international visitors and corporates.
The Elms precinct includes open grass space with food trucks and a big screen for all the racing action.
The Park precinct features the Fashions on the Field stage, food and beverage outlets and the live stage with popular international and Australian artists, including Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Empire of the Sun.
The Melbourne Cup Carnival is the largest major event in Victoria. Last year’s carnival generated more than $468 million in gross economic benefit, created jobs for nearly 18,000 people and attracted 262,000 visitors to the track.
The Labor Government continues to help ensure Victoria remains Australia’s number one destination for thoroughbred racing with $87 million delivered for the industry in last year’s Budget.
As stated by Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines
“Nobody does spring racing like Victoria. This year’s carnival will provide a massive boost to our hotels, retailers, cafes and restaurants – backing local jobs and keeping our city buzzing with excitement.”
“The thoroughbred racing industry in Victoria contributes more than $3.4 billion for the Victorian economy every year and helps sustain more than 25,000 jobs across the state.”
As stated by Victoria Racing Club CEO Kylie Rogers
“We thank the Victorian Government for its support in The Park and The Elms precincts, part of what is shaping to be an even bigger and better 2024 Melbourne Cup Carnival.”
“The Melbourne Cup Carnival is Australia’s most celebrated racing event which draws crowds of over 260,000 people including more than 67,000 visitors from interstate and overseas, as well as showcasing Melbourne to a global broadcast audience of 750 million.”
