PORT Macquarie and Wauchope clubs and pubs were filled to the brim on Tuesday as the region turned out to join in the fun and festivities that accompanies Australia’s most celebrated race. This year the race was an even happier occasion, as well-backed favourite Fiorente took out the Melbourne Cup from northern raiders Red Cadeaux and Mount Athos, the first favourite to win the race since 2005. Waterhouse also becomes the first female trainer to take out the cup. She has come close three times before, including last year when Fiorente made his Australian debut, finishing second to Green Moon. Fiorente will now go for a spell, with a possible European campaign on the cards. Belinda Richardson, Sharon Eriksson and Ilona Canaghan are pictured here joining in the pre-cup fever at the Port City Bowling Club in Port Macquarie.
For more photos turn to page 11.
