Melbourne businesses are gearing up for the trifecta of the Melbourne Cup carnival, Oasis and Metallica concerts, which are expected to drive a once-in-a-decade hospitality boom.
An extra $110 million is expected to be pumped into the city’s economy directly from the event triple header as tens of thousands of racegoers and concert fans flock to restaurants, bars and hotels, according to NAB analysis.
The bonanza kicks off with British rockers Oasis launching its Australian tour on Friday 31 October with the first of three concerts, followed by the four-day Melbourne Cup carnival and wraps up with metal icons Metallica playing their only Melbourne show on Saturday 8 November.
NAB Executive Business Metro & Specialised Julie Rynski said: “This is expected to be the biggest week and a bit of the year for Melbourne’s economy. Events are part of Melbourne’s DNA, but three major events in just over a week is extraordinary and will supercharge business activity.
“The iconic Cup carnival and world-class concerts aren’t just cultural highlights – they’re economic powerhouses, which we estimate will drive at least a $110 million boost for the local economy and increase weekly spend by 70%.”
More than 100,000 people are expected in the city and surrounds on each of the two Saturdays and on Cup Day, which will create a surge in demand for hospitality, retail and accommodation.
“That means packed restaurants, busy hotels and millions of dollars flowing into local businesses. We’ll also see flow on benefits – more shifts for casual staff, more orders for suppliers and a boost in confidence across the sector.”
The Melbourne Cup Carnival is one of Victoria’s largest major events generating more than $500 million in gross economic benefit last year, creating jobs for thousands of Victorians and attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the track.
The world-class carnival will once again showcase the very best of racing, fashion, culture, food and wine across four spectacular race days at Flemington Racecourse – Howden Victoria Derby Day, the Lexus Melbourne Cup, Crown Oaks Day and TAB Champions Stakes Day.
Founder and CEO of Urban Alley Brewery Dean Grant (above) said the Docklands-based independent craft brewery – which has just opened its new $7 million brewpub experience at Chadstone – is ramping up for a huge week of revelry.
“As soon as we realised there were so many major events happening back-to-back, we got organised to ensure we had the right team in place and we were well covered by our suppliers on the food and beverage front,”
Victorian Government injects $1.79 million into Flemington
This year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival is set to be bigger and better than ever – with the Victorian Government delivering new entertainment precincts and attractions at Flemington.
The Victorian Government is investing $1,790,000 from the Major Racing Events Fund towards the carnival’s entertainment and infrastructure, alongside the Victoria Racing Club’s multi-million-dollar investment to enhance The Elms and The Park precincts.
The Elms Stage presented by Maccas will come alive with performances from global DJ phenomenon FISHER and Australian electronic icons PNAU.
The Park will also feature family-friendly entertainment, immersive activities and the chance to meet retired racing champions.
Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines said: “Nobody does spring racing like Victoria and this year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival will once again showcase our city at its very best.
“We’re proud to back Victoria’s $4.7 billion racing industry – supporting thousands of jobs and keeping Melbourne buzzing as the Melbourne Cup Carnival draws visitors from across Australia and the world.”
Victoria Racing Club Chairman Neil Wilson said: “We’re grateful to the Victorian Government for its generous contribution to the Melbourne Cup Carnival, one of Victoria’s most important major events.
“Crowds from Victoria, interstate and around the world travel to see the very best we have to offer in world-class racing, experiences and entertainment, and we look forward to presenting this year’s edition of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.”
G.H. Mumm sets sail into the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival
G.H. Mumm, the official Champagne of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, has unveiled its ‘Setting Sail’ birdcage marquee, a never-before-seen layout for the Maison.
The marquee includes a second level outdoor viewing deck, complete with racecourse telescope and binoculars, while the exclusive dining space has been transformed into the Private Yacht in 2025; and an invitation-only secret cellar, inspired by a captain’s table.
View more photos from the Mumm marquee here.
For more information or to purchase a ticket to the Melbourne Cup Carnival, visit vrc.com.au.
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