Spring Racing Carnival Wrap-Up: Birdcage 2025

What. A. Carnival!

We were lucky enough to soak up all the action at Flemington this year across Derby Day, Cup Day and Oaks Day, and it was nothing short of unforgettable. The fashion was chic, the marquees were buzzing and the energy across the Birdcage was next-level.

For those who haven’t visited the world-famous Birdcage before, it is an exclusive enclosure where fashion, luxury and celebration collide. Each year, this glittering precinct becomes a showcase of Australia’s most creative brand experiences, bringing together celebrities, media, fashionistas and racing royalty.

In 2025, there were bespoke marquees from iconic partners including G.H. Mumm, TAB, Crown, Nine, Don Julio, and new partner Kirin Ichiban, plus the all-new Runway Room x Joey Scandizzo Pamper Lounge and live headline acts after the final race. It truly was a spectacular celebration.

More than 250,000 racegoers flocked to Flemington across the week, and the atmosphere was magic. A huge congratulations to Jamie Melham, who made history by being the first woman to win both the Melbourne Cup and Caulfield Cup, cementing her place as one of the greats.

Here’s our wrap-up of the four incredible marquees we visited this year.

Setting sail in style with G.H. Mumm.

We were lucky enough to spend Cup and Oaks Day in the iconic G.H. Mumm marquee, and let’s just say - they set sail in serious style.

This year’s “Setting Sail with Mumm” experience transported guests aboard a luxe private yacht, complete with a secret cellar inspired by the captain’s table, a Mediterranean-inspired menu by Olympus Dining, and the most divine signature cocktails. From the nautical-chic interiors to the front-row track views, every detail captured Mumm’s fearless spirit of adventure.

The marquee’s striking red exterior and curved corner window made it an instant Birdcage standout. Inside, guests were greeted by spaces that embodied the sophistication and thrill of sailing — with Mumm’s iconic red sash featured throughout, complemented by rattan finishes, lifebuoys and branded oars.

Downstairs, a light-filled atrium offered prime race viewing before transforming into a lively dance floor as the Champagne flowed. Melbourne DJ Dijok and Rich Penny kept the energy high, while new VIP booth seating and a porthole-inspired photo moment added even more glamour.

Upstairs, the outdoor viewing deck -  a first for G.H. Mumm - delivered unbeatable people-watching and racecourse views, complete with telescopes and binoculars for a true captain’s-eye perspective.

Marquee highlights included Jessica Watson OAM officially opening “Setting Sail” with a tap-tap Jeroboam Champagne moment on Derby Day, followed by Thanasi Kokkinakis taking the honour on Cup Day.

After 16 years as the official Champagne of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, G.H. Mumm once again proved that no one celebrates at Flemington quite like they do. The atmosphere across the week was electric, the dance floor packed, and the Champagne endless.

Huge thank you to G.H. Mumm and Lucy and Genevieve at The Mint Partners for your warm hospitality throughout the Carnival, we had the best time at Chez Mumm.

My husband Peter joined me at Mumm on Cup Day.

The telescope and binoculars at G.H. Mumm was such a gorgeous touch.

A peek at the gluten free offerings in the G.H. Mumm Marquee - divine!

There was a huge media presence on Cup Day as Thanasi Kokkinakis had his 'tap-tap' Jeroboam Champagne moment at the front of the marquee.

On Oaks Day I was joined by one of my beautiful friends Rana and my sister Sophie, for the ultimate girl's day at G.H. Mumm.

TAB – The Winners' Circle

The TAB Winners' Circle Birdcage marquee was two levels of fun, with premium trackside views, stylish lounge spaces, interactive areas where punters could engage with TAB’s state-of-the-art racing innovations, sports bar, plus a hidden speakeasy.

TAB was a hub for business leaders, racing enthusiasts, AFL and NRL stars, cricketers and those who love to celebrate in style.

Guests were treated to an immersive experience blending sport, luxury and high-energy entertainment, plus stunning catering featuring Victor Churchill meats, Quincy Jones cocktails, and that perfect mix of luxe and laid-back.

Hidden away behind a sleek door, we discovered The Inner Circle - a speakeasy for just 18 lucky guests at a time.

And of course, it wouldn’t be TAB without a little flutter -  guests enjoyed expert race commentary, live betting insights and access to TAB’.betting terminals, high-definition screens, and that unmistakable race-day energy, making it the perfect spot to kick off Cup Week in style.

Thank you to TAB and Thea & Jarrod Villani for hosting us on Derby Day for an incredible day of fashion, fun and cheeky bets!

Hidden away behind a sleek door, we discovered The Inner Circle - a speakeasy for just 18 lucky guests at a time.

Kirin Ichiban – From Tokyo to the track

The most exciting new addition to the Birdcage at the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival was Kirin Ichiban’s stunning three-story marquee. Kirin took over as the official beer of the Victoria Racing Club, replacing Furphy, and certainly did so in style, hosting the largest marquee within the prestigious Birdcage enclosure.

The Kirin Ichiban marquee offered uninterrupted views of the Flemington racetrack alongside a Japanese-inspired, multi-sensory experience. Guests were treated to a curated grazing menu, lavish dining spaces, all-day beverage service and an incredible lineup of live entertainment.

From the moment we stepped inside, it was drumming beats, eye-catching sushi stations, rooftop views, beer infused cocktails and vibrant energy at every turn. The marquee set a new benchmark for Birdcage experiences - a luxe Izakaya-style escape filled with world-class food, music and the best vibes. 💫

We loved it so much, we returned on Oaks Day, and it was absolutely pumping. The rooftop bar became the place to be, with soulful tunes, breathtaking track views, and the freshest sushi and sashimi in the Birdcage.

A huge thank you to Kirin Ichiban, Lion Beverages, and Thinkerbell PR for hosting us throughout the carnival - it was an unforgettable experience, and we cannot wait to see Kirin continue to make its mark at Flemington. 

Don Julio Tequila – Pure Fiesta Energy

On Oaks Day, we took a quick trip to Mexico with Don Julio Tequila, and let’s just say… this marquee was on fire!

As we walked through the glam arched entrance we could hear the music pumping. It was 1pm and the dance floor was packed, with live sax, the best beats and signature margaritas flowing. The space felt like a secret club in the Birdcage filled with colour, rhythm and pure fiesta good vibes, plus tasting room offering Tequila tastings,

It was impossible not to dance, sip, and smile - exactly the kind of energy we all needed by day three of the Carnival!

Thank you Thrive PR and Don Julio Tequila for the party and your hospitality!

With huge thanks to our incredible hosts: G.H Mumm, Kirin Ichiban, TAB and Don Julio for your hospitality this week, and to the superstar PRs and event gurus who make the Birdcage magic happen, including @themintpartners @thrivepr @thinkerbellpics.

And a special little shoutout to High St Hire for my amazing Leo Lin dress for Oaks Day - my first time hiring and the service was perfection (express posted from Sydney!).

Plus, major love to Morgan & Taylor for the stunning headwear that topped off every look this carnival. 💕

Until next year, Flemington, thank you for the magic. 🏇✨