Melbourne's biggest sports party

Austadiums • Monday 27th October 2003

Melbourne is preparing for a $200 million sporting bonanza. Up to 500,000 people will party in the city during an unprecedented array of world-class events over five days from Friday.

More than 55,000 fans are expected at the MCG on Friday night as Australia's football stars take on Ireland in their second International Rules clash.

Victoria Racing Club expects more than 100,000 to attend Derby Day on Saturday, the meeting that kicks off the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Then, after the sun sets on the races, the most anticipated World Cup Rugby match so far will be played between Australia and Ireland before 55,000 fans at Telstra Dome.

Those without a ticket can absorb the atmosphere at a live broadcast on Federation Square's big screen. The party will start at 4pm with Irish bands and DJs playing at mini bars around restaurants and cafes.

At noon on Monday, up to 80,000 spectators will line Swanston St for the Melbourne Cup Parade of Champions including past winners, bands, roving entertainers and competing trainers, jockeys and owners.

Festivities will continue in Federation Square with an autograph session with trainers and jockeys, racing challenge machines and free pony rides.

Melbourne's first Cup Eve party will start at 5pm in the square. Up to 10,000 revellers are expected to enjoy live bands including Super Jesus, DJs, highlights from previous Melbourne Cup races, roving entertainment and portable bars.

On Melbourne Cup day, up to 110,000 fans will converge on Flemington before hitting city nightspots.

"Never before has Melbourne played host to so many major events at once," Lord Mayor John So said.

"This is without doubt the biggest weekend the city has had."

More News

Melbourne is preparing for a $200 million sporting bonanza. Up to 500,000 people will party in the city during an unprecedented array of world-class events over five days from Friday.
The Austadiums website is made possible by displaying some advertisements to our visitors.
Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker, whitelist us, or DONATE TO US