(with apologies to AB Paterson)

 

There was movement in the village

For the word had got around

That a horse race would be taking place

Far south in Melbourne town.

 

The ladies were a-flutter

At the thought of dressing up

For that important grand event -

The famouse Melbourne Cup.

 

The workers became busy

With food and decoration,

Racing silks and much regalia

Were a source of inspiration.

 

Punters all turned up apace,

The ladies dressed to kill,

Fascinators were supplied

To those who lacked the will

To decorate their hair with scraps

With flowers and feathers, or perhaps

A sparkly trinket, all was done

Just in time to join the fun.

 

Fashions in the field for those

Game enough to strike a pose,

Placings for the girls and guys -

One of them a big surprise.

In fact, he made some give a shriek -

First bloke was an unknown sheikh.

 

Racing bingo and a quiz,

Someone sure to be a whiz.

Lunch, dessert and then the race,

Horses set a cracking pace.

On the track, a scene to thrill,

One poor jockey had a spill.

 

The youngest horse proclaimed the winner,

Most wallets now were somewhat thinner.

Some felt that they had been swindled -

Others had their faith rekindled.