The Melbourne Cup festivities opened with a revamped entertainment lineup that included a Welcome to Country led by Wurundjeri elder Uncle Colin Hunter.
While Hunter’s gesture received cheers from some in the Flemington crowd, it sparked mixed reactions, particularly on social media.
Hunter’s Welcome to Country, shorter than in previous years, quickly transitioned to the next act, featuring singer Ronan Keating as the day’s headliner.
Some spectators voiced disappointment online, feeling the abbreviated welcome diminished its significance.
“It felt meaningless after a few appearances,” one commenter wrote, while another questioned the timing, suggesting it felt odd to hold the welcome just before the sixth race.
The day’s events, however, continued under sunny skies with upbeat performances. Keating, joined by Australian star Ricki-Lee, lifted the crowd’s spirits with a lively duet.
The pre-race entertainment also paid tribute to legendary jockey John Patterson OAM, who passed away last month.
Patterson’s sons, Shane and Peter, honored their father by carrying the Cup trophy, which they handed over to Olympic swimmer Ariarne Titmus.
In a fitting close to the ceremony, Greta Bradman, granddaughter of cricket icon Sir Donald Bradman, performed Australia’s national anthem.
As the race day unfolded, the balance between tradition and celebration remained at the forefront, marking a Melbourne Cup that attempted to honor heritage while engaging a modern audience.