Our Melbourne Cup

THE main street of Longreach was deserted on Tuesday as the focus of the town shifted to the action of the Melbourne Cup race day at Longreach racecourse.

The heat couldn't dampen the excitement down at the track as everyone seemed to be getting caught in the buzz of the nation’s biggest racing event.

Ladies were dressed to impress in beautiful frocks and hats and many of the fellas also found the inspiration to scrub up.

The punters among them were hoping for a big win on a day where gambling feels almost mandatory. At 2pm all eyes were glued to the television for the big race.

Shouts of encouragement frothed forth from the crowd but following the hysteria only a few were left cheering.

Favourite Yeats ran his race before the final straight while the much discussed Tawqueet barely drew the race caller's attention.

To take peoples' minds from the pain of dropping their purses on the nags, the Fashions of the Field were hotly contested. Among the 'fillies' was Brooke Collins, who won for the second year in a row. Runner-up Peta Ann Cooper looked as elegant as ever.

Rob Johnston was the fashion 'Stallion' of the day with Rupert Ballinger runner-up for his smart look.

Maree King took out the 'Mare's' category wearing a silky sequined top and Margaret Harris was awarded runner-up for a lovely lime-coloured ensemble.

The National Rugby League Premiership trophy was another star attraction of the day and let those locals strong enough imagine their ultimate sporting fantasy by holding it above their heads.

By the time the local racing finished many from the crowd were in the right mood to delve feet first into the party and dancing which followed.