Flemington pays tribute on ANZAC Day with free entry for all!

To commemorate the milestone, the VRC will offer free entry to all, inviting the community to come together at Flemington to honour and reflect on the courage, sacrifice and service of Australia and New Zealand’s servicemen and women. Racegoers can redeem their complimentary tickets via the VRC website, ensuring seamless access to the racecourse on the day, and take advantage of the State’s current free public transport to make attending on the day even easier. 

Flemington’s wartime connections extended well beyond hosting race meetings. During World War I, the racecourse was repurposed as a military training ground. In the winter of 1915, as the Gallipoli campaign took a heavy toll on Australian lives and enlistments surged, the newly opened Maribyrnong Stand was used as overnight accommodation for hundreds of recruits, who marched daily to the nearby Showgrounds for training. 

The eight-race program is highlighted by the 170th Listed VRC St Leger (2800m) — one of Australia’s oldest races which has boasted winners such as Grand Flaneur, Poseidon, Phar Lap and Tulloch. A full field has assembled for this year’s running headlined by Howden Victoria Derby placegetter, Deal Done Fast for trainer Matt Cumani and Tasmanian Derby champion Dad and Dave from the Ciaron Maher stable. 

Racegoers will have the opportunity to pause to reflect during an ANZAC Day ceremony in the Mounting Yard at 2:55pm, featuring two mounted troopers of the Light Horse Brigade and six members of the HMAS Cerberus Marching Contingent alongside the Catafalque Party. The ceremony will also include the singing of the Australian and New Zealand national anthems and a moment of silence to pay respect to past and present servicemen and women. 

Racegoers can also experience a touch of wartime tradition with the game of Two Up played on the Front Lawn throughout the afternoon. 

In the spirit of remembrance, Watsonia RSL and Simpson Barracks volunteers will be on-course selling ANZAC Appeal pins, with proceeds supporting veterans and their families. 

Current ADF personnel and RSL members will be offered a complimentary first beverage (by the glass) between 1:00pm and 2:00pm at all retail bars and dining venues across the course.