Flemington’s Straight Six evolved from a starting chute added for the second Melbourne Cup in 1862. The extension gave runners a long approach before the first turn and eventually became a defining sprint course in its own right. The finishing straight had already been moved beneath Flemington Hill in 1860. Today’s familiar view therefore grew out of practical alterations to the original racing ground.
Flemington’s name has a Scottish family connection. Landowner James Watson named his property after his wife Elizabeth’s hometown in Morayshire and built the Flemington Hotel there in 1848. A small settlement developed around it, and the name became associated with the racecourse. It did not come from Robert Fleming, as was once believed.
Hosier Lane. Explore the changing street art in central Melbourne’s lanes, with cafés and small shops nearby.
NGV International. Visit the art collections on St Kilda Road for a cultural stop across the river from the city centre.
Greater Melbourne has 4,917,750 residents.
