10 August 2011

The Tour commenced its travels in New South Wales today with a visit to the central west hub of Dubbo, home of legendary Melbourne Cup race caller Bert Bryant. 

Dubbo certainly lived up to its name as The City of Smiles with students from St John’s Primary School dressing in their racing best to welcome the prized trophy and two time Melbourne Cup winning jockey,  John Letts to their town.

Visiting the iconic Taronga Western Plains Zoo, the giraffes were thrilled to enjoy a snack from a much more glamorous food bowl than they’re used to!

The Tour party joined more than 100 Dubbo residents for a delicious lunch at the Dubbo City Bowling Club, before visiting the Orana Gardens nursing home where residents and their families were delighted to hear John Letts share stories of claiming the coveted Melbourne Cup.

Paying tribute to the local racing community, the Cup featured at a cocktail party hosted by the Dubbo Turf Club to launch the 2011 Dubbo Gold Cup celebrations by unveiling the rings that will be awarded to the winning jockey and trainer of this year’s showcase meeting. 

Exhausted from a great day of activity in Dubbo, the Tour entourage retired in preparation for a fun-filled day in the Cabonne Shire tomorrow.

To view further images of the EMCT and track the Tour’s progress, visit our Facebook page, Flemington: Home of Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Photo: John Letts and the Emirates Melbourne Cup meet some new friends at Dubbo's Taronga Western Plains Zoo