No Melbourne Cup would be complete without the usual gang of stars, starlets, chefs, sports men and women, fashion designers, millionaires and billionaires and royalty.
The place to be is always the VIP Birdcage and no invitation is so sought after as the one to the marquee of naming rights sponsor, Emirates, who this year must have known something about the winner by choosing to go with the green of Ireland with an Irish-themed pub.
The first starlet to surface today was Mischa Barton who caught the paparazzi and guests by surprise when she arrived – gasp! – 30 minutes early.
The statuesque beauty towered over most of the guests as she paraded around the room wearing an Ellery-designed burgundy dress, a Philip Treacy hat and Louis Vuitton accessories.
Barton told reporters she was taken aback by the casual atmosphere inside the course compared to the times she has visited big race days in England.
"It's more laid back than I thought it would be and it's easier here," Barton told reporters.
"England is quite a big production and I really like it here, it's nice.
Barton was soon followed by Australia’s own Rose Byrne (pictured) – making her first appearance at a Melbourne Cup – and Ashley Madekwe.
Byrne was also a few minutes early for her photo call outside the Lexus marquee and said she's always liked having a bet on the Cup.
"It's my first time and I'm thrilled to be here.
"My father is a real punter and we're here (my father and sister) and we're having a bet."
Madekwe arrived at the Emirates marquee on time at 12.30pm.
Cricket legend Shane Warne was marquee hopping. After having his photo taken in the home of vitamin giant Swisse, Warne popped next door to share a smoke on the deck of Crown marquee with billionaire James Packer. As you do.
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