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THE BATHURST community came to a standstill yesterday afternoon to watch as Gai Waterhouse’s Fiorente claimed victory in the race that stops the nation.
Local businesses closed their doors, pubs went silent and workers huddled around any television in sight when the Melbourne Cup started at 3pm.
Bathurst RSL Club was just one of the venues across town which was filled with excited punters, field fashions and fascinators.
Marketing manager Peter Feenan said Melbourne Cup was one of the club’s busiest days of the year.
“We have been open since 7.30am this morning and have had a steady flow of members placing bets all day,” he said.
“The club is all dressed up in decorations, there is a good vibe and everyone is having a great time.”
While some members opted to watch the race from the Lounge Bar, others chose to attend the Melbourne Cup Day function in the beautifully decorated auditorium.
“Members at the function have enjoyed participating in sweeps, best dressed prizes, tucked into a buffet, enjoyed some dessert and a complimentary drink,” he said.
“We also have the fashion parade organised by Red Chair Boutique, where entrants can win the ultimate little black dress and other prizes.”
Local Tracey Grabham said she really enjoyed coming down to the function to watch the Melbourne Cup.
“We’ve put a few bets on, spent a bit of money, so we’ll have to see how we go,” she said shortly before the race. “The atmosphere is great, the food is always beautiful and it’s much better than watching the race at home.”
Ms Grabham said she was already looking forward to next year’s race and planned to cruise down to Melbourne so she could watch the race at Flemington. Friend Annette Wood said she had organised to get the day off work so she could attend the function.