Horsham Cup 2019: Music, historic Melbourne Cup to add to entertainment

Horsham and District Racing Club manager Lisa Inkster said the three-piece cover band would play between races and the Fashions on the Field event.

"It's about creating an event at the races that is a cross section in the hope you're going to be able to attract families, singles, or anyone just looking to do something on a Sunday afternoon," she said.

"Registration for Fashions on the Field will be at the main stage which is just as you come in the gate - you can't miss that," she said. "We're going to start the competition pretty much after race one, which is scheduled for 1.15pm.

Ms Inkster said Fashions on the Field got busier and more hotly-contested every year.

"It seems our contestants are not only competing at Horsham but also regionally. Some of them are even competing across the state," she said.

"They're wanting to know who are judges are, what the prizes are and whether it's worth their while coming to Horsham to compete. They're spending an enormous amount of money on their outfits, and the quality that is now coming out at country race days is definitely on par with what's happening at the metro tracks."

Ms Inkster said Fashions on the Field judges looked for complete outfits. "They want to see them finished with the right accessories, whether that's gloves, head wear or a bag," she said.

"We've also got Kelly Sports in the car park. He'll be entertaining the children with a four-hour package for them to go their hardest on all the outdoor and sports activities they have out there."

Ms Inkster said the event would not be hosting the 2019 Melbourne Cup as it had done with previous years' cups. However, she said the 1965 cup would be at West Side between 3.30 and 4pm for attendees to take a photo with.

She said a free town bus would be available for people to travel to and from the racecourse on Sunday, and that people could call 0408 822 091.

"If they would like to be picked up from a specific address, they can definitely ring that number and make a booking," she said. "Otherwise the bus will be doing the main loop around Wilson, Urquhart and Baillie streets, so wave the bus down if you see it.

Horsham Highway Patrol Sergeant Dale McIvor urged racegoers to leave their keys at home.

"Enjoy yourself, but be mindful and don't drink drive," he said.

"We try and pool our resources into days like the Horsham Cup so we have an extra unit around town and increase breath and drug testing.

Sergeant McIvor said crowds at the event were usually well-behaved.

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