Mt Wycheproof’s Derby Day in the Country

A strong breeze swept across the Mt Wycheproof racecourse on Saturday, lifting picnic blankets and sending hats and fascinators flying as close to 3,000 people gathered for Derby Day in the Country.

Despite the blustery conditions, the crowd came from far and wide, with locals joined by visitors travelling from Melbourne and across Victoria for an afternoon of country racing, fashion and festivities.

The wind had other ideas for some of the carefully assembled race-day outfits, with several hats making their way on to the racetrack before being retrieved ahead of racing.

With the rain holding off, marquees filled with groups of family and friends, while picnic blankets and camp chairs dotted the grounds. Champagne glasses clinked, conversations carried across the lawns and the afternoon's celebrations stretched well beyond the final race.

Mt Wycheproof and District Racing Club president Kevin Thompson said the committee was pleased with the turnout and another successful meeting.

“It was a terrific day for the club, with a great crowd, a fantastic atmosphere and plenty happening on and off the track,” he said.

“It’s always good to see so many people come out and support the Cup and make it such a great day.”

Coinciding with Halloween, this year’s Cup Day brought an added twist to the usual race-day attire, with several attendees swapping traditional glamour for a touch of spooky dressing.

For others, the focus remained firmly on the fashion, with Fashions on the Field showcasing an array of elegant outfits, statement headwear and carefully co-ordinated ensembles.

Judged by Jade Benham MP, Narelle Makepeace and Maree Coffey from Swan Hill Women in Racing, the competition featured plenty of black-and-white combinations and classic country racing style.

Lady of the Day winner Ruth Kaguramamba, from Horsham, stood out in a striking monochrome outfit featuring a dramatic white shoulder cape and wide-brimmed black hat.

Emma Miller, from Melbourne, took home Derby Day Best Dressed in a fitted white dress with bold black patterns, while Rubi Crouch, from Stawell, was recognised for her statement black-and-white millinery.

Graham Walters, from Yarra Glen, claimed Gentleman of the Day in a grey checked suit complemented by a tan fedora.

There was no shortage of style among the younger racegoers either, with Wycheproof’s Lucas Durie and Daisy Barry, from Camperdown, sharing the Best Dressed Junior Racegoers title. Lucas opted for a traditional race-day look, while Daisy wore a dark sleeveless dress finished with a statement fascinator.

There was also a familiar voice back in the racecaller box, with Dayne Barry returning to the role 12 years after his first appearance.

Now 24, Barry fulfilled a childhood ambition, bringing his enthusiasm to the microphone as the field made its way around the track. Racing.com presenter Sam Doran also kept proceedings moving as emcee.

While Switch Hit, trained by Mitchell Freedman and ridden by jockey Chelsea Taylor, took out the Elders Mt. Wycheproof Cup, jockey Jack Martin impressed winning four of the seven races.

The horses may have had their turn, but the track wasn’t quite finished with racing, as dozens of youngsters took to the course for the kids’ races.

Beyond the racing, food vans kept appetites at bay with everything from burgers to ice cream and popcorn, while the EWHS Ladies Auxiliary served a traditional country lunch at the Golf Club.

Ash B Music provided the afternoon’s soundtrack, with her strong vocals carrying across the grounds and into the evening. Those not quite ready to call it a day made their way to the Terminus Hotel, where a packed crowd welcomed the Drowning Sorrows for the after party.

From packed marquees to a full afternoon of entertainment, Derby Day in the Country once again gave Wycheproof plenty to celebrate.