The mercury had reached a sweltering 35 degrees trackside at Bushland Drive by the time the barriers opened for the first race at 1.30pm, with patrons arriving by the busload to revel in the festivities.

Yesterday's heat follows on from a golden run of summery weather that has bathed the Mid North Coast over the past four days. The humidity meant racegoers ensured they were frequently lubricated, no-one really game enough to wander too far away from the designated bar areas.

A huge turnout of dolled-up beauties and suave-looking beaus were also on hand to raise the fashion stakes with an array of colourful get-ups and glamorous gowns.

Among the highlights were a range of home-made feather fascinators, some spunky gold and glitter combinations, and an outlandish lime-green necktie.

"It's all about dressing up today," Wingham punter Adam Worth said.

"It's the one day of the year where everyone gets their best gear on and goes out for a good time."

A stellar five-race local program kept the bookies on their toes as the tension built to the main event at 3pm.

Port Macquarie bookmaker Graeme Cook said punters had splashed a lot of money on early favourites Alcopop and Viewed.

"But to be honest, it has got to be one of the hardest races to pick," he said. "It's anyone's guess really."

"The biggest bet I've received so far has been $1400. People really get into it."

Graeme has been in the bookie business since 1964. His personal pick for the Cup was Newcastle-bred Newport.

"The (bookmaking) business has looked after me," Graeme said. "But days like this are just fantastic to be a part of. There's always a great buzz in the air."

Is there a secret method to picking a Cup winner?

"If there is, I'd like to know it," he laughed. "My advice is: make your selection about six weeks in advance, and don't change it."

The 2009 Melbourne Cup was won by Shocking, a crowd favourite at the Taree course as it was ridden by former Wingham jockey Corey Brown.