Australia
Unclaimed listingHeritage hotel
During its long history, the Melbourne Cup has been postponed only twice, in 1870 and in 1916. The Spring of 1870 really was dismal. In September the city was deluged by six inches of rain, and again in October by a further 4.5 inches. Trainers had a most difficult task to give their horses sufficient work in preparation for the V.R.C’s spring meeting. Over 100 horses were stabled near Flemington, but for weeks on end the running track was under water. On Tuesday, 27th October 1870, the VRC stewards inspected the course at Flemington and announced that the spring meeting would be postponed for one week. The steward’s decision turned out to be a wise one. The weather picked up well and on both Derby and Cup Days, the going was surprisingly good. The main effect of the racing on Derby Day was to bring the Hotham Handicap winner, Nimblefoot, from long odds to a prominent place in Cup discussions. Nimblefoot was an aged gelding, whose form over the previous three years had been so poor, that the handicapper had assessed him at only 6.0 for the cup. Ballarat publican Walter Craig had paid $200 for the horse and had sent him back to his native Tasmania in the hope that a long spell would bring him back to his early form. It was from there that Nimblefoot came back to do his Cup preparation under the care of the prominent Flemington trainer, W. Lang. By post time for the big race, the attendance was estimated at 30,000. 28 runners lined up for the cup, and the big field included the winners of the previous three cups.
Recognised as one of regional Australia’s most prestigious wedding venues, Craig’s Royal Hotel is the perfect combination of historic charm, tradition and innovation. Over 6 years restoration and refitting works have created a wedding venue, unmatched in the region.
Learn more on Craig's Royal Hotel's site →3 distinct event spaces available — each with its own character, capacity and image.
The legendary Prince’s room was specially prepared for royalty in 1867 when Queen Victoria’s second son, Prince Alfred, the Duke of Edinburgh visited Ballarat. The room is decorated with rich wallpapers and a most magnificent ceiling installed at the beginning of the last century.
Located on the historic Lydiard Street, overlooking Her Majesty’s Theatre, the Reading Room boasts an elegant balcony with views of one of Ballarat’s most historic landmarks.
Deep under Craig’s wonderful edifice is a contrasting bluestone and timber cellar, which in years gone by has set the scene for much joyous imbibing. Now a private setting for dinner parties, mystery nights, wine dinners, and gathering with a classic rustic feel.
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