Inside Headquarters 2026

Each year, the Melbourne Cup Carnival writes a new chapter in racing history – moments of courage, skill and celebration played out on the track. Though racing is at its heart, the Carnival’s spirit extends beyond it – through fashion, entertainment and some of Australia’s finest hospitality. This collection of stories captures the people, memories and moments that make Cup Week special, revealing the many sides of an event that continues to inspire and evolve.

Official Carnival Magazine

Go behind the scenes of the Melbourne Cup Carnival with the official 2026 Carnival Magazine. Meet the personalities shaping racing today, discover fascinating stories and traditions, and explore the style, creativity and culture that bring the Melbourne Cup Carnival to life. Enjoy!

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PROFILE

Jamie Melham … the Cups Queen

Hard work, guts and determination have seen Jamie Melham rise to the peak of her sport.

MELBOURNE CUP

A century of Phar Lap

Australian racing has seen champions come and go, yet 100 years on, Phar Lap still stands above them all.

Let him entertain you!

He’s back in Australia with his BRITPOP World Tour this November, so Robbie Williams is also bringing the party to Flemington. Get ready for one of the world’s biggest entertainers to light up the track!

RACING

Behind the win: James McDonald

James McDonald reflects on winning the Lexus Melbourne Cup with Verry Elleegant, a childhood dream realised in one of racing's most unforgettable moments.

PROFILE

Writing the record books

They rode champions, won the biggest races and etched their names into Australian racing history.

MELBOURNE CUP

The art of training a winner

The Melbourne Cup isn’t won on the first Tuesday in November – it’s won in the planning that leads up to it.

MELBOURNE CUP

Three minutes in the Mounting Yard

When Half Yours won the 2025 Lexus Melbourne Cup, the world witnessed a moment of pure joy.

GIDDY UP, FISHER IS BACK

Last year FISHER turned Flemington into Australia’s biggest open-air dancefloor. This year, he’s back to do it all again.

Entry is FREE with your general admission ticket!

A stitch in time

Since the first Melbourne Cup was run in 1861, Flemington has given fashion one of its greatest stages.

Crafting a Carnival look

Some of Flemington’s best-dressed choose to rework, rebuild and reuse, stitch by stitch, sometimes over years of trying.

A sparkling tradition

There are few sounds more evocative of the Melbourne Cup Carnival than the pop of a champagne cork.

A place to call home

Through its partnership with the VRC’s Pin & Win campaign, Ronald McDonald House Victoria & Tasmania supports families when they need it most.