Flemington Derby Day Tips 4th November 2023

• Michael Kruse
• 2 November 2023

Derby Day at Flemington is here, and the spring carnival […]

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Derby Day: Style and Elegance at the Spring Racing Carnival

When it comes to elegance, excitement, and that spark of something truly exceptional, Victoria Derby Day at the Spring Racing Carnival stands out year after year. The event, a highlight on Melbourne’s calendar, isn’t just about world-class horse racing. It’s a stage for glamour, a meeting ground for friends and families, and a venue to flaunt Australia’s latest in high fashion. Let’s dive into what makes this day such a standout.

Victoria Derby Day Race Details

If you’re planning to join, here’s what you need to know:

Full Derby Day Timetable

The Heritage of Derby Day

This isn’t your typical race day. With roots reaching back to 1861, Derby Day has grown into a grand event blending the thrilling pace of horse racing with the sophistication of a high-fashion affair. Over the years, the Victoria Derby itself has gone through a few changes, including a move to metric in 1972, which extended the race to its current 2500 metres, a length designed to keep both the horses and the jockeys at the top of their game.

And yes, there’s always that incredible anticipation leading up to this day—no two years are ever quite the same, and that’s part of the charm. Racing enthusiasts know that records like the 1991 benchmark of 2:33.60, held by Star Of The Realm, add to the Derby’s storied legacy. Fascinatingly, just four horses have won the Derby in their first-ever race, most recently Preferment in 2014—proof of just how unpredictable and exhilarating the Derby can be.

How to Get Derby Day Tickets

Everything You Need to Know

Securing a spot for Derby Day is a bit like placing a bet—you want to move fast, as these tickets tend to sell out well in advance. You can head to the official Spring Racing Carnival website to find options, whether you’re looking for general admission or something a touch more exclusive with reserved seating and hospitality packages. Derby Day is the epitome of Melbourne’s racing season, so don’t risk missing out by waiting until the last minute!

To buy tickets to the Victorian Derby Day, check the VRC website.

Fashion Forward: Black and White Sophistication

One of the most iconic aspects of Derby Day? The dress code. It’s all about classic black and white, with racegoers taking the opportunity to showcase timeless elegance with a modern twist. For the ladies, think tailored dresses, chic jumpsuits, or elegant two-piece sets paired with statement hats or fascinators. Gents, this is your moment to don that crisp suit, perhaps with a pocket square or bowtie that adds just a dash of flair. And for those with a competitive streak, Fashions on the Field offers a chance to claim the spotlight and some pretty fabulous prizes too.

The Fashion Stakes: Competitions and Prizes

Derby Day hosts a range of fashion competitions, including the famous “Fashions on the Field”. Fashions on the Field participants are judged on their style, originality, and adherence to the dress code. Winners can walk away with fabulous prizes, so don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your style on the stage.

Betting on Derby Day

For anyone tempted to try their luck, Derby Day is a fantastic introduction to the world of racing. To make the most of it, start with a little homework—research the horses, jockeys, and trainers beforehand, or check out the top tips of the day. Remember, the idea is to have fun, so set a budget, keep things light-hearted, and above all, bet responsibly.

You can find the tips and race information at the top of this page.

Hospitality at Flemington: Food, Drinks, and Fine Times

From gourmet dining to simple bites, Flemington Racecourse offers options that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you’re after a champagne brunch or just a quick bite at one of the food stalls, there’s no shortage of variety. For a seamless experience, especially if queues aren’t your thing, consider booking a hospitality package. It’s an indulgence that ensures your day remains as smooth as it is memorable.

Getting to Flemington Racecourse

Located right in Melbourne, Flemington Racecourse is easy to reach by public transport—trains, trams, and buses will get you there in good time. While parking is available, spaces are limited, so getting there early or opting for a taxi or ride-share can make the day stress-free from the start.

Location

448 Epsom Road, Flemington Victoria 3031

Why You’ll Want to Be Part of Derby Day

From the electrifying atmosphere to the fashion statements and, of course, the thrill of each race, Derby Day is a sensory experience. Imagine a whole day spent in the company of friends, new and old, in one of Melbourne’s most picturesque settings, all while the drama of the racetrack unfolds around you.

Whether you’re there for the racing, the socialising, or the style, there’s no doubt that Derby Day is a must-attend event. It’s not just a day at the races; it’s a celebration of tradition, glamour, and community. Make it a day to remember. See you trackside!

Contact

Phone:

1300 727 575

Reception:

(03) 8378 0888

International callers:

+61 (3) 9140 4821

Email:

Membership: membership@vrc.net.au

General enquiries: generalenquiries@vrc.net.au

Derby Day FAQs

What is the dress code for Derby Day? 

Derby Day has a strict black-and-white dress code. Women typically wear tailored dresses, jumpsuits, or separates, accessorized with hats or fascinators. Men usually wear tailored suits, tuxedos, pocket squares, or ties.

When does Derby Day take place? 

Derby Day is held on the first Saturday of November each year as part of the Spring Racing Carnival in Melbourne, Australia.

How do I purchase Derby Day tickets? 

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Spring Racing Carnival website or other authorized ticketing partners.

Can I place bets on Derby Day? 

Yes, there are various betting options available at Derby Day, including placing bets on horses, jockeys, and trainers.

Are there any special events or competitions on Derby Day? 

Derby Day is known for its fashion competitions, such as Fashions on the Field, where participants compete for prizes based on their style, originality, and adherence to the dress code.

What are the dining and drinking options at Derby Day? 

There are numerous dining and drinking options available at Derby Day, ranging from fine dining restaurants to casual eateries and bars. You can choose from various food and beverage packages or purchase items individually.

How do I get to Flemington Racecourse? 

Flemington Racecourse is easily accessible via public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service. Limited parking is available at the venue.

Previous Winners

• 2022 Manzoice
• 2021 Hitotsu
• 2020 Johnny Get Angry
• 2019 Warning
• 2018 Extra Brut
• 2017 Ace High
• 2016 Prized Icon
• 2015 Tarzino
• 2014 Preferment
• 2013 Polanski
• 2012 Fiveandahalfstar
• 2011 Sangster
• 2010 Lion Tamer
• 2009 Monaco Consul
• 2008 Rebel Raider
• 2007 Kibbutz
• 2006 Efficient
• 2005 Benicio
• 2004 Plastered
• 2003 Elvstroem
• 2002 Helenus
• 2001 Amalfi
• 2000 Hit The Roof
• 1999 Blackfriars
• 1998 Arena
• 1997 Second Coming
• 1996 Portland Player
• 1995 Nothin’ Leica Dane
• 1994 Blevic
• 1993 Mahogany
• 1992 Redding
• 1991 Star Of The Realm
• 1990 Fire Oak
• 1989 Stylish Century
• 1988 King’s High
• 1987 Omnicorp
• 1986 Raveneaux
• 1985 Handy Proverb
• 1984 Red Anchor
• 1983 Bounty Hawk
• 1982 Grosvenor
• 1981 Brewery Boy
• 1980 Sovereign Red
• 1979 Big Print
• 1978 Dulcify
• 1977 Stormy Rex
• 1976 Unaware
• 1975 Galena Boy
• 1974 Haymaker
• 1973 Taj Rossi
• 1972 Dayana
• 1971 Classic Mission
• 1970 Silver Sharpe
• 1969 Daryl’s Joy
• 1968 Always There
• 1967 Savoy
• 1966 Khalif
• 1965 Tobin Bronze
• 1964 Royal Sovereign
• 1963 Craftsman
• 1962 Coppelius
• 1961 New Statesman
• 1960 Sky High
• 1959 Travel Boy
• 1958 Sir Blink
• 1957 Tulloch
• 1956 Monte Carlo
• 1955 Sailor’s Guide
• 1954 Pride Of Egypt
• 1953 Prince Morvi
• 1952 Advocate
• 1951 Hydrogen
• 1950 Alister
• 1949 Delta
• 1948 Comic Court
• 1947 Beau Gem
• 1946 Prince Standard
• 1945 Magnificent
• 1944 San Martin
• 1943 Precept
• 1942 Great Britain
• 1941 Skipton
• 1940 Lucrative
• 1939 Reading
• 1938 Nuffield
• 1937 Hua
• 1936 Talking
• 1935 Feldspar
• 1934 Theo
• 1933 Hall Mark
• 1932 Liberal
• 1931 Johnnie Jason
• 1930 Balloon King
• 1929 Phar Lap
• 1928 Strephon
• 1927 Trivalve
• 1926 Rampion
• 1925 Manfred
• 1924 Spearfelt
• 1923 Frances Tressady
• 1922 Whittier
• 1921 Furious
• 1920 Salitros
• 1919 Richmond Main
• 1918 Eusebius
• 1917 Biplane
• 1916 Wolaroi
• 1915 Patrobas
• 1914 Carlita
• 1913 Beragoon
• 1912 Wolawa
• 1911 Wilari
• 1910 Beverage
• 1909 Prince Foote
• 1908 Alawa
• 1907 Mountain King
• 1906 Poseidon
• 1905 Lady Wallace
• 1904 Sylvanite
• 1903 F.J.A.
• 1902 Abundance
• 1901 Hautvilliers
• 1900 Maltster
• 1899 Merriwee
• 1898 Cocos
• 1897 Amberite
• 1896 Newhaven
• 1895 Wallace
• 1894 The Harvester
• 1893 Carnage
• 1892 Camoola
• 1891 Strathmore
• 1890 The Admiral
• 1889 Dreadnought
• 1888 Ensign
• 1887 The Australian Peer
• 1886 Trident
• 1885 Nordenfeldt
• 1884 Rufus
• 1883 Martini Henry
• 1882 Navigator
• 1881 Darebin
• 1880 Grand Flaneur
• 1879 Suwarrow
• 1878 Wellington
• 1877 Chester
• 1876 Briseis
• 1875 Robin Hood
• 1874 Melbourne
• 1873 Lapidist
• 1872 Loup Gaou
• 1871 Miss Jessie
• 1870 Florence
• 1869 Charon
• 1869 My Dream
• 1868 Fireworks
• 1867 Fireworks
• 1866 Sea Gull
• 1865 Angler
• 1864 Lantern
• 1863 Oriflamme
• 1862 Barwon
• 1861 Camden
• 1860 Flying Colours
• 1859 Buzzard
• 1858 Brownlock
• 1857 Tricolor
• 1856 Flying Doe
• 1855 Rose Of May