One
of the nation's great iconic sporting venues,
Flemington Racecourse has been elevated to the
National Heritage List for its role in bringing
Australians together for the race that stops the
nation.
The Minister for Employment
and Workplace Relations, Kevin Andrews MP, representing
the Minister for the Environment and Heritage,
Senator Ian Campbell, announced the listing trackside
today.
“For 145 years, through the
turn of two centuries, wars and the depression,
the Melbourne Cup has been the ‘race that stops
the nation.’ Awarding the racecourse Australia’s
greatest heritage honour, recognises it as the
home of a true national social and cultural tradition,”
Mr Andrews said.
“Each year, on the first Tuesday
of November millions of eyes are on Flemington.
It is estimated that around 700 million people
watch the Cup on television throughout 170 countries
and millions more tune in via the radio or Internet.
“Whether we are lucky enough
to watch the race in person, or watch it screened
in offices, public squares and other race tracks
around the country, one thing is certain: the
Melbourne Cup holds us all spellbound.”
Senator Campbell said Flemington
Racecourse became the 34th place on the National
Heritage List, joining the Sydney Opera House,
Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australian War Memorial
and Port Arthur as places of outstanding heritage
significance.
“I have included Flemington
racecourse on our pre-eminent heritage list for
its outstanding social and cultural values to
the nation,” Senator Campbell said.
“The magic of the Melbourne
Cup extends beyond the race itself - it’s an entire
day of colour, glamour, fashion, excitement and
social events.”
The Chair of the Victoria Racing
Club, Mr Rod Fitzroy, said the listing helped
take Australia’s unique and diverse heritage to
an international audience.
“The eyes of the world are on
our nation today, such is the attraction of this
great Australian icon. The listing reflects the
important role Flemington and the Melbourne Cup
carnival plays in the very fabric of our society,”
Mr Fitzroy said.
For more information www.heritage.gov.au
Rob Broadfield (Senator Campbell’s office)
Sarah Casey (Mr Andrews office)
