Racing Victoria got the news on Sunday that up to 10,000 fully vaccinated fans would be able to attend Flemington Racecourse for the Melbourne Cup on the first Tuesday of November.
A decision was made to include the Melbourne Cup as part of the Government's newly announced ‘Vaccinated Economy Trials’ which will trial patrons attending large scale events when fully vaccinated.
In a model adopted by many countries the state will be trialling a number of events before the Melbourne Cup with the Myer Music Bowl and other smaller venues setting a blueprint for November 2nd.
The biggest question now remaining is will the likes of Stakes, Oaks and Derby day be allowed patrons in attendance. At the moment this is all dependant with the state double vaccinating 80% of the population.
"The final two days of the Melbourne Cup Carnival ... will also welcome up to 10,000 patrons if the 80 per cent double-jab threshold has been passed," a statement from the government read.
"Racing fans will be spread across a number of zones at Flemington in allocated seats, and will be required to wear masks and be fully vaccinated or holding a valid exemption.
"These events will follow the first stage of trials under the 70 per cent double dose settings which kicks off from Monday at regional venues including cinemas, hotels, and cafes as well as a gym, a church and a beauty clinic.”
Who will be allowed to attend the event is now the tricky question to solve with the VRC having over 30,000 members and obligations to media and partners to fulfill.