The Australian Spring Racing Carnival runs from September through November and includes the biggest meetings of the year at Flemington, Caulfield, Randwick and Moonee Valley. It is the single most important period of the Australian racing calendar.
Key Meetings
The carnival kicks off with the Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington in early September. It builds through the Turnbull Stakes, Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate and culminates at Flemington's Melbourne Cup Carnival in early November. Randwick's Spring Championships also play a major role.
Feature Races
Group 1 races during the Spring Carnival include the Epsom Handicap, Metropolitan, Caulfield Guineas, Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate, Empire Rose Stakes, Victoria Derby, Melbourne Cup, Oaks and Emirates Stakes. The Everest at Royal Randwick is the world's richest turf race with $20 million prize money.
Betting Strategy
Form lines through Spring Carnival races are reliable indicators. A horse that performs well in early spring lead-up races often progresses through to the major features. Wet tracks are common in Melbourne and significantly change form lines.
Where to Bet
All of our 60 reviewed Australian bookmakers accept bets on this carnival. For major races, compare prices across at least three operators before betting. Filter by feature to find bookmakers that offer live streaming and same race multi betting.
Responsible Gambling
Racing carnivals are social occasions but they can also drive impulsive betting. Set a budget for the carnival before it begins and stick to it. If gambling is no longer fun, help is available 24 hours a day on 1800 858 858 or via Gambling Help Online.