Each year on the first Tuesday of November Australia eagerly awaits The Melbourne Cup, often referred to as "the race that stops the nation". The race starts at 3pm on Tuesday 7 November and all eyes will be glued to the screen or the track – if you’re lucky enough to be in Melbourne at Flemington.

The Melbourne Cup is a prestigious 3200-metre horse race, featuring three-year-old and older thoroughbred horses. This iconic event, held at the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, Victoria, is a highlight of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival and stands as the world's most opulent "two-mile" handicap, making it one of the richest turf races globally.

The top 12 horses in the race are awarded significant prize money, with the winner claiming a remarkable $4.4 million, the runner-up receiving $1.1 million, and the third-place finisher taking home $550,000. The rewards extend to $350,000 for the fourth place, $230,000 for the fifth, and $160,000 for those securing the sixth to twelfth positions.

The Bugle is aware of four main local options for locals to get together and use the opportunity to don the fascinator and the glad rags and join in with other fashionistas. For a festive luncheon including sweeps and raffles, TAB, and of course high heels and sparkling wine you can join any of these local offerings:

The Children’s Medical Research Institute Gerringong Committee is hosting a Melbourne Cup Luncheon at 12 noon in the Gerroa Boat Fisherman’s Club. This event not only celebrates our nation's most famous occasion but also raises vital funds for scientific research aimed at improving children's health outcomes. Tickets are $55 each. www.trybooking.com/CLLQY 

The Sebel Kiama invites you to a sumptuous 3-course lunch from 12 to 4 pm, complete with an unlimited bar. Enjoy the thrill of the race on big screens and live music by Tim Stevens, all for the price of $150 per ticket. www.trybooking.com/CMBCE

The Kiama Leagues Club is hosting Melbourne Cup festivities from 12 to 4 pm, featuring sweeps and TAB, along with exciting 'prizes for fashion on the field.' Enjoy wine tasting and entertainment by Jodie O’Shea. The flexibility of ordering from the Bistro menu lets patrons customise their experience.



The Kiama Golf Club is hosting a Melbourne Cup luncheon with prizes for best dressed and best hat. Enjoy entertainment by Penny Hartgerink from 3 - 6pm. Tables can be booked at Mystic’s which is offering an event menu for the day.