The marquees are going up, the horses are getting primed for race day - now all the Otago Racing Club needs on Melbourne Cup day next Tuesday is fine weather.
Preparations are already well advanced at Wingatui for the club's biggest meeting of the year, club events and marketing manager Charlotte Neilson said.
Thousands of racing fans - and fans of a good day out - were on course last year but early ticket sales are suggesting the event could be even bigger this year.
''We had just over 6000 people on course last year but I think we'll have more,'' Ms Neilson said.
Sales of hospitality packages and mini marquees are backing up that theory and only a smattering of options is left.
''We've pretty much sold out of everything,'' Ms Neilson said.
''We've only got 20 spots left in the Pure Purist marquee. We've sold out of mini marquees and big marquees - everything's gone.
"We've got a waiting list for the hospitality packages, in case someone pulls out.''
There will be no fear of general admission tickets selling out, however, and Ms Neilson will be looking skyward as the day dawns on November 4.
The walk-up crowd will largely be dependent on the weather - a sunny start could mean 8000 racegoers, but rain might keep plenty away.
''We're just hoping for the sun,'' she said.
Ms Neilson reiterated the event was strictly no BYO, and no alcohol could be brought into the racecourse.
Anyone showing any signs of intoxication would not be allowed access to the racecourse, either.
Travel options for those heading to and from Dunedin included four buses and 100 tickets had already been sold for the train from Wingatui.
Food options had been expanded from recent years, along with other market stalls.
''We should have a few trade stalls open, as well, from the markets that are in town on the weekend, so there will be a few different pieces on course,'' she said.
''There's a huge amount of [food] vendors this year compared to last year. We've probably doubled the size of the vendors.''
Fashion on the Field contestants could either register through the club before next Tuesday, or register before race two at the marquee immediately to the west of the birdcage.
Sergeant Kevin Davidson, of Mosgiel, said uniformed staff would be at the track, and police would also have a presence on the roads.
Extra general duties police had been rostered on to cover the period after the race meeting.
''Watch the alcohol intake and don't spoil the day for yourself or others,'' Sgt Davidson said.
''Take care of your friends, avail yourself of the transport arrangements available (don't drink and drive) and please ensure all fascinators are securely attached for the whole day,'' he said.
Cup day
Gates open: 11am.
First race: 12.40pm.
ABC Business Sales Trophy (feature race): 3.27pm.
Melbourne Cup: 5pm.
Last race: 6.42pm
