Sandown’s opening drew 52,379 spectators, creating severe congestion on the roads around the new venue. The project had reached completion after the Melbourne Racing Club joined with the Victorian Amateur Turf Club, giving it the backing needed to proceed. That first crowd demonstrates the scale of public interest in a new racing destination.
Sandown’s Hillside and Lakeside courses are treated separately in the Melbourne Racing Club’s racing information and record books. Although they share the same venue, a performance belongs to the particular circuit on which it was achieved. Checking that distinction makes comparisons more meaningful when following horses between meetings.
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.
