The Flemington racecourse in Melbourne will welcome back punters for the first time in 18 months for the sports biggest day today.

Up to 10,000 fully vaccinated revellers will be trackside for the Melbourne Cup as restrictions were eased just in time for the big race.

Victoria Racing Club CEO Steve Rosich told Gareth Parker on 6PR Breakfast it’s a great moment.

“Whilst it’s not the normal crowd you’d say on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day of around 100,000 people, none-the-less it’s going to show that Australia, and indeed Melbourne, are back open and operating,” he said.

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