The Elders Mt. Wycheproof Cup stood proudly, and held its own, beside the iconic Lexus Melbourne Cup trophy earlier this week, ahead of what is anticipated to be a hugely successful weekend in the Mt. Wycheproof community – with the hosting of Derby Day in the Country.

The setting was an exclusive evening as Eddie McGuire AM hosted a special Carnival edition of “Inside Headquarters Live” at Flemington.

Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour National Sweep

Kick starting proceedings for the first time at Inside Headquarters Live, were 24 rural and regional Cup Tour destinations being randomly allocated a starting gate for the race that stops a nation. Once the race is run, the town that has drawn the barrier of the 2024 Lexus Melbourne Cup-winning horse will be presented with a cash prize of $50,000 to put towards a registered charity for a local community initiative.

Lucky Number, Barrier 18

Mt. Wycheproof’s barrier was announced as 18, whilst the registered charity is the Wycheproof Community Resource Centre.

Special Guests

Neil Wilson, chairman, and Kylie Rogers, newly appointed CEO of the Victoria Racing Club, shared the latest updates ahead of the race that stops a nation. Whilst legendary trainer Sheila Laxon, the first female to win the Melbourne Cup with her mare Ethereal in 2001, was also in attendance, alongside Luke Nolen, Black Caviar’s jockey, and part-owners Colin Madden and Pam Hawkes, all sharing their unique stories and memories of Black Caviar’s incredible career.

The One and Only – Eddie McGuire, AM

The prominent face of the Spring Racing Carnival coverage for Channel 9, Eddie, at a nominated time throughout the evening, channelled his extensive media experience and enthusiasm to align with the heart of country racing via an up-close encounter with the Elders Mt. Wycheproof Cup, acknowledging “Derby Day in the Country”, together with Mervyn Keane and Des Gleeson.

With a keen interest in the sport of thoroughbreds, Eddie immersed himself in the unique spirit of this iconic Country Cup Day, set against the backdrop of the smallest registered Mountain in the World, Mt. Wycheproof, by taking a moment for a photo shoot alongside the trophy and the prestigious Lexus Melbourne Cup.

The photograph was a celebration of community and epitomised the essence of country racing.

Eddie’s engagement, and interest in the event was mesmerising, whilst he further took the time to acknowledge Mervyn and Mt. Wycheproof from the main stage to the applause of a huge crowd. All initiatives elevated event awareness and firming up the spotlight on the vibrant connection between rural and metropolitan racing communities, together with creating a sense of excitement around Barrier 18, of which the community was allocated.

As Cup Day fast approaches, Eddie’s encounter with the Elders Mt. Wycheproof Cup, and catch-up with Mervyn, has highlighted the unique charm and enthusiasm that country racing brings to the broader Spring Racing Carnival.

Eddie’s genuine interest in communities and appreciation for racing traditions shines a spotlight on the spirit of country racing.

The Mt. Wycheproof and District Racing Club was thrilled to see him carry a piece of Wycheproof’s racing pride on to a prominent Melbourne stage, in the fine company of Mervyn and Des.

No doubt Eddie will be casting a quick glance at the goings-on at Mt. Wycheproof this Saturday from his professional role at Flemington, as will Mervyn, Des and many others.

This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 1 November 2024.