24 October

Homeward bound, the Cup began its busy day at Crown, ready for a guest appearance on Melbourne Cup Carnival partner, Seven’s Sunrise morning program. Internationally acclaimed milliner and guest of the 2011 Carnival, Mr Phillip Treacy, joined the the trophy, and their combined golden lustre truly lit up the screen.

Joined by a collection of racing, fashion and sporting personalities, the Tour then ventured to the official launch of the 2011 Melbourne Cup Carnival, a fabulous event held at the Crown’s new showpiece venue, Club 23, setting the tone for the exciting weeks ahead.

Just as it has across Australia and New Zealand, the coveted trophy was the centre of attention with guests, including connections of potential 2011 Emirates Melbourne Cup winners, all enjoying their chance to take snaps with the Cup.

After a quick rest, it was time for the Cup’s very own celebration – The Homecoming of the Emirates Melbourne Cup – held at the beautiful Sofitel Hotel in Melbourne’s Collins Street for a grand celebration of this year’s Tour, featuring a key note address from Victorian Premier, Mr Ted Baillieu.

A selection of 2011 Emirates Melbourne Cup Tour Ambassadors and VRC representatives enjoyed telling their Tour stories from their travels, each of them recalling the joy the Cup brought to metropolitan, regional and rural locations across Australia and New Zealand.