RESIDENTS of Victoria Heights Residential Care and Scope along with Catholic College Bendigo students were excited to get up close to Melbourne Cup winner Subzero on Tuesday.

"Having seen the animal up close brings back a lot of good memories (for residents)," administrator Trudie Long said.

"A lot of residents would have had animals when they were younger and they were all keen to have a pat.

"We often have other animals like dogs, cats and birds here as a bit of therapy."

For Catholic College Bendigo students, meeting Subzero was a chance to learn more about careers in the equine industry.

CCB teacher Teleah Thorne said it was a great opportunity for students to hear from people living and breathing the racing industry. "It was about that perspective of hearing about career paths not directly associated with horses," she said.

"I teach a certificate two in animal studies and about 70 per cent of the class are quite interested in a career in the equine industry.

"It's wonderful that an animal like Subzero can come on site to different places rather than schools taking 60 students to a location.

"The kids were very eager to see him up close, have a pat and ask questions. He is a big, majestic boy."