Australia’s biggest horse racing event of the year is fast approaching, putting horses in danger for the sake of gambling profits.
From being subject to painful tongue ties and whips, to being deemed ‘wastage’ and sent to slaughter, horse racing is nothing to celebrate for horses (and the people who love them).
The good news is there are plenty of ways to celebrate horses compassionately this ‘Melbourne Cup’ day instead.
Join the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses (CPR) for the traditional peaceful protest on ‘Cup Day’ and be a voice for horses.
The event kicks off at 10am at Newmarket Reserve, next to Flemington Racecourse (Vic). The dress code is smart — whatever would typically be worn to the races — to show people that fashion can be just as fun off the field. Placards and banners are usually provided by the wonderful CPR team.
For more information, head to CPR’s Official Melbourne Cup Protest and Picnic page or the Facebook event here.
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This cruelty-free celebration features Melbourne’s best vegan food, market stalls, DJs, animal charities, and prizes. And of course, it’ll show the nation that kindness is more fun than cruelty!
Hosted by The Vegan Vegout and Woking Amazing food truck, this official event proudly supports our friends at the Coalition for the Protection of Racehorses (CPR).
The event will be held on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, 12–8pm in Northcote (Vic). Find out more on the Nup to the Cup website here.
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Not in Victoria? There still might be an event near you!
As more and more people become aware of the sad reality for horses trapped in this industry, the number of Nup to the Cup events being held around Australia is increasing too. Instead of supporting gambling and animal cruelty, these events help raise money for horses through advocacy and rescue.
Check out the Nup to the Cup event listing here for events Australia-wide.
Many workplaces and even schools have sweeps on race day or place bets in other ways. Why not convince your colleagues or mates to put their dollars towards helping animals this year, instead of betting on cruelty?
Participants could pitch in to win a box of animal-friendly treats or another prize, and the remaining funds could go to an animal charity of the winner’s choosing!
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Help spread a little kindness for horses by downloading this image and sharing it on your social media channels.
Every share is an opportunity to open more eyes — and hearts — to seeing horses for who they are, rather than how fast they can run.
This image contains content which some may find confronting
If you love dressing up and want to have a fun day with your friends, without supporting horse racing, what better excuse to throw a party…
Get your mates to bring along their favourite games, wear fabulous (feather-free) hats, clink glasses, and voila… who needs a horse race to have fun together?
If you’d like to do even more for horses, here are other ways you can help them today:
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