While the race that stops that nation now brings with it some strong opposition with the ‘Nup to the Cup’ campaign, where ever you land on this event morally, the fact remains it is still a standout day for our hospitality friends. Here we celebrate 5 Impos venues, whether you are looking for a casual venue to watch the race, a long fancy lunch, or to celebrate a big win and keep the party going later in the night! The Imperial Hotel – Main Beach, Gold Coast Gallop into a day of timeless elegance at the Imperial Hotel’s fabulous Melbourne Cup event, all in support of the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation. Whether you’re in for the seafood or the stilettos, they’ve got the race-day experience to make your Cup Day a real thoroughbred. Choose between the elegant Couture High Tea, complete with dainty treats and a glass of bubbles, or if you’re feeling extra fancy, dive into the Signature Seafood Buffet with a premium three-hour beverage package. Expect live music, race sweeps, and raffle prizes to keep things lively, with live streaming to catch all the action. $89pp for the Couture High Tea and $195pp for the Signature Seafood Buffet. The Fifth Province – St Kilda, Melbourne The Fifth Province is a St Kilda fave and have just had a recent reno promising an evening getting lost in their Irish Whiskey collection. Upgrade your Melbourne Cup experience in their Whiskey Bar! Book via their website and enjoy a bottle of Moët & Chandon champagne on arrival. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your day. They are also providing an Early Bird Breakfast kicking off Melbourne Cup Day bright and early! Doors open at 9 am on Tuesday, November 5th. Start your day with a hearty breakfast and get into the festive spirit ahead of the big race with live music and a DJ lineup from 5pm. Catalina – Rose Bay, Sydney It’s hard to beat the iconic Catalina who have just celebrated their 30 year birthday, which is an incredible feat in hospitality and are renowned for their opulence and water views. They have a leisurely Melbourne Cup lunch from 12-5p with all the trimmings. Lunch commences with caviar and luxe canapes on arrival, followed by your choice of entree, main and dessert, coffee and petits fours at $295 pp. Screens, sweeps and fabulous prizes to win! Great Ocean Road Brewing – South Geelong, Victoria For Melburnians wanting to make the most of the long weekend and head out of town, why not visit the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse in Apollo Bay! Kick off the festivities at the Brewhouse on Saturday, hosted by the Apollo Bay Cricket Club. Enjoy a day filled with fashion, fun, and fundraising featuring exciting sweeps and raffles. Don’t miss the return of the Calcutta on Monday at 6pm, with Melbourne Cup sweeps available all day long. It’s a weekend of excitement you won’t want to miss! The Beaufort – Perth, WA Join them for an afternoon of fashion and indulgence among the sun-soaked gardens and terraces of The Beaufort this Melbourne Cup! Your five-hour all-inclusive experience kicks off from 11am, with doors opening at 10.30am, as you’re treated to a premium selection of wines, beers, spirits and cocktails alongside roaming canapés and substantials. Join them for an afternoon of fashion and indulgence among the sun-soaked gardens + terraces of The Beaufort this Melbourne Cup for $189 pp. As always, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.