And They Are Off - Melbourne Cup Events

Whether you're just champing at the bit to watch this year's Melbourne Cup or just keen for some drinks and tasty food while enjoying the race that stops the nation, there are plenty of venues hosting events on Tuesday 1 November.

Mon Komo Hotel is hosting the Myer Fashion Parade and offering a three-course lunch and live entertainment from 12pm. Guests are invited to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a mouth-watering lunch that will include Moreton Bay prawns, chargrilled chicken breast or grass-fed eye fillet and an indulgent chocolate brownie with crème anglaise for dessert.

This year, Mon Komo Hotel is also offering a deluxe package that includes the three-course lunch, three-hour deluxe beverage package and a shared seafood platter. Guests will be welcomed with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival and entertained with live music throughout the day, and a best-dressed competition for ladies and men. Tickets start at $75 per person. To book please email events@monkomohotel.com.au or call

ph 3284 6520.

The Belvedere Birdcage is hosting a Mad Hatter Quirky Garden Party themed event, inviting guests to come in their formal racing attire to enjoy canapes and a lunch box menu with a three-hour premium beverage package. A courtesy bus is available for your convenience, and there's an after party if you want to stay after the race! Join the Belvedere from 11.30am to 3.30pm. Tickets start at $79. For more information, call 07 3284 2245.

The Golden Ox will entice you with their deluxe canapes and tasty mains. Enjoy a macadamia crusted barramundi fillet or lamb rump for mains followed by cinnamon brulee (gluten free) for dessert. With prizes for best dressed gentleman and lady, best dressed couple and best hat or fascinator, the Golden Ox will start the celebration at 11am. Lunch is $64.80 per person. Book now by calling

3283 1833 or visit www.thegoldenox.com.au.

The Redcliffe Paceway Restaurant will again be hosting a terrific luncheon in celebration of the race. The new caterer and his team have devised a delicious lunch for just $59.95 per person. For bookings and payment, phone 3284 4550.

The Ambassador of Redcliffe will have a racing theme in their three main areas with sweeps running all day. The Public Bar will open from 9am, and will have a complimentary BBQ on the deck from 12pm. The Bistro is holding a Melbourne Cup Lunch, and for $47.95, guests will receive a three-course lunch, drink voucher, mystery trifecta and entry into their pick-a-box promotion. Plus, there will be a competition for best dressed, best hat, and a lucky door prize. To book, phone 3284 6427.

Wherever you choose to watch the race, be sure to book early as these events sell out quickly every year!

By Melissa Bailey