People from Brisbane, Boggabri, Karuah, Lake Cathie, Dunbogan, Laurieton and Port Macquarie mingled with Taree locals for the five-race program and to watch the feature race streamed live from Flemington Racecourse.

Manning Valley Race Club chief executive officer Helen Sinclair said a number of factors draw people to the Taree track.

"We have a big function area which gives a great view of the track," Helen said.

"We also have races from Taree and others on the big screens. People also come for the food from our top notch chef Kevin Williams."

A buffet was one offer in the Winning Post Function Centre while everyone else could access a bistro, pizza, coffee and a barbecue run by Taree Lions Club.

"We made sure it was in the one area," Helen said.

For the younger demographic, the Corey Brown Room was transformed into a nightclub of sorts.

This was coordinated by Kyle Brown to present a different race day experience.

"It's so the younger group can have an event of their own inside the race club's event," Helen explained.

"There was a deejay going in there with several high tables set up so people can have a drink and talk.

"We've done it several times before and it's very popular."

The Fashions on the Field was held near the winner's podium this year after being a part of proceedings in the function centre in 2018.

While looking after the registrations for the event, Christine Hile predicted many race-goers would be decked out in colourful outfits.

"They will be bright and summery with lots of beautiful fascinators," Christine said.

Prizes went to the best dressed woman, man and millinery (hat). In the betting ring, Melbourne Cup favourite Finche was being heavily backed.

"The cup will be matched by betting on races here in Taree," bookmaker Graeme Cook added.

Track conditions were downgraded to a Soft 5 before the race meet got underway.

It was originally listed as a Good 4 before eight millimetres of rain fell in a 10 minute period.

Gosford's John and Pip Cooper made the trip up the Pacific Highway to enter Coolaminyah Kid in the TAB Venue Mode Benchmark 58 Handicap.

The Gosford Racecourse based team are frequent visitors to the Bushland Drive track.

"We've come to Taree for a few races before," Pip said.

"It's a good track and a nice drive up. It's always a great day when we're here."

The seven-year-old was hopeful of more success in Taree.

"We've had him for more than two years and he's won six races," Pip said.