Julie Bishop made a stylish return after a two-year hiatus, joining a crowd filled with state politicians, executives from the gambling and hotel industries, and familiar television personalities.
Flemington Racecourse’s Birdcage is renowned for its focus on fashion and social buzz rather than the horses themselves. Yet, this Tuesday stood out for a different reason.
Half Yours’ victory brought genuine sporting excitement to the marquee-filled venue.
David Canny, the Victorian president of the Australian Hotels Association, co-owns the winning gelding. Unsurprisingly, many in the Lion’s Kirin Ichiban marquee and guests at the AHA’s traditional pre-Cup lunch had backed the horse, adding to the celebration’s energy.
The Birdcage at Flemington turned its usual glamour into cheers of genuine sports joy when Half Yours, co-owned by David Canny, triumphed before an elite crowd of leaders and celebrities.