28 Oct 2022 | 11:53 PM UTC
Australia: Officials to host annual Melbourne Cup thoroughbred horse racing tournament and related events in Melbourne Oct. 29-Nov. 5
Officials to host annual Melbourne Cup horse racing tournament and related events at Flemington Racecourse, Australia, Oct. 29-Nov. 5.
Event
Officials will host the annual Melbourne Cup thoroughbred horse racing tournament and related events at the city's Flemington Racecourse Oct. 29-Nov. 5. Related events include mass celebration events, including a popular carnival. Additional gatherings are possible in Melbourne's Central Business District. The government has declared Nov. 1 as a public holiday. The events are likely to draw hundreds of thousands of attendees.
Authorities will maintain a heightened security posture in the Melbourne Central Business District, especially near the Flemington Racecourse, Princes Bridge, and Federation Square, as well as public transportation stations, entertainment venues, and Yarra and Maribyrnong rivers. Security personnel will conduct enhanced checks and have warned that those operating in Flemington will face significant localized transport disruptions. Increased demand for alternative transport is likely. Large crowds may form at public transportation stations. Traffic congestion is possible as some travelers opt to use personal vehicles and taxi and ride-hailing services. International participants and attendees may join the events and will likely arrive and depart from Melbourne Airport (MEL); flight disruptions are possible. Localized business disruptions may occur through Nov. 5.
Advice
Confirm all travel and business arrangements. Use alternative transport or consider permitting remote work options. Allow additional time to reach destinations in Melbourne amid the events. Prepare for unannounced detours as police may close roads with little warning. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
