Odds on for Melbourne Cup 2012

Once again it’s that time of year.  The Melbourne Cup.  Tuesday 6 November.  And, as one radio station so aptly put’s it … the race that stops a nation.

And don’t we all love it?  Not least because it’s a mid-week break, but also for the excitement it’s guaranteed to generate.  The mass of preparation, the outrageous outfits, and the planning of where, when and with whom you will be watching the all important (blink and you’ll miss it!) horse race.

Not to be outdone, the Sunshine Coast celebrates in its usual fabulous style offering a massive range of venues to eat, drink and be merry, while you cheer on your chosen star stallion.  What I love so much about the Coast is that you don’t need to spend a fortune either.  It’s a great excuse for a BBQ (as if we need one!).  Simply invite your mates, set-up a syndicate and enjoy the race in the comfort of your own home.   

However if you’d like to go to a venue on the Coast for the Cup, there’s plenty to choose from.  Whether you’re after calm and casual, or glam and gorgeous, the odds are you’ll find exactly what you’re after.  I’ve listed three of my favourites below.  Please note that all events mentioned are strictly 18+.

1.       Bistro C, Hastings Street, Noosa Heads

When it comes to location you simply can’t go past Bistro C.  With its heady holiday vibe and stunning sea views, it’s a prominent place to enjoy the Melbourne.  It’s a pretty reasonable $80 for a 3 course meal with a glass of bubbles on arrival.  Plus the fabulous “Rush” band, and sweeps and prizes for “best dressed’ and “best hat”.  The competition will be fierce in Bistro C. 

2.       Maroochy Surf Club, Alexandra Parade, Cotton Tree

Brilliant value money can be found at the Maroochy Surf Club.  Head along to the ever- popular surf club for just $50.  This includes a 2 course meal, a glass of sparkly on arrival, trivia sweeps, fashion parade and prizes for the best dressed male and female.  Plus (and this is a real bonus) four $250 Maroochy Surf Club vouchers to be given away at 2.30pm.  What more could you ask for?

3.       Sunshine Coast Turf Club, Pierce Avenue, Caloundra

For live, adrenalin-pumping action on the tracks, as well as full TV coverage of the Melbourne Cup, the Sunshine Coast Turf Club is the one.  Great if you’re on a tight budget too.  Entry is just $20, and although no drinks are allowed to be taken into the venue, you can take an esky with food, a shade and table and chairs.  Chill out in the sun and enjoy live racing, entertainment and fashions on the field.

As for Boomerang Bus Hire, well, we’ve got our work cut out for Melbourne Cup Day.  We’ll be transporting cup goers around the coast, making sure they get to and from their destinations in comfort and style. 

Last time we took a group to the Turf Club the driver popped in for bet and won $300.  Fingers-crossed he gets lucky again this year.

So wherever you go and whatever you do, we wish you a safe, fun Melbourne Cup 2012.

"Thank you for the brilliant service that you provided for our weekend on the Sunshine Coast.  I'm so glad that I booked you.  We saved loads of money travelling together on a bus instead of getting taxis.  And it was good to have the same smiling, friendly and helpful driver throughout our stay."