Thousands flocked to one of our region’s most relaxed racedays, with the organisers touting the event as a major tourism magnet.
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More than 6000 excited punters took in the sunshine and revelry of the Avoca Cup on Saturday, with the atmosphere almost outstripping the action on the track.
With a purse of more than $15,000 for Fashions on the Field, sartorial style was high on the agenda for many. Kelly Carey clinched Lady of the Day, while Nic McRoberts took out Gent of the Day.
Leanne Hammond won Most Sustainable Outfit, Brian Gwekwe had the best Baz Pork Pie Hat, Eliza Sabaliaukas was head and shoulders above the rest with Best Milinery and Jasmin and Bryson Fitzgerald won Couple of the Day.
Avoca Races event and marketing manager Vanessa Briody said the event had maintained its down-to-earth, grassroots appeal, with volunteers from the region driving the day.
“It’s super relaxed and really anything goes,” she said. “You can get super dressed up to win Fashions on the Field, or you can put on a crazy, colourful suit.
“It’s very open to all demographics, plus the location of the track itself in front of the Pyrenees mountain range, which is stunning.”
With all their onsite camping spots for a total of 400 people sold out, Ms Briody said more people were spending the weekend in the region to visit cellar doors.
“It has a great impact on the businesses in town and for repeat visitation, we’re very lucky to be central to Bendigo, Ballarat, Melbourne and the Grampians,” she said.
“The day is ultimately about supporting the local community and having a lot of fun – that’s the Avoca atmosphere.”
Avoca police who were on-course throughout the day said they were pleased with the racegoers behaviour, with no incidents reported.
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