Aussies divided over Melbourne Cup's bizarre new dress code for members

The Melbourne Cup is a divisive event at the best of times but a recent change to the dress code for members and corporate guests has surprised many racegoers ahead of the event on November 7.

The Victorian Racing Club (VRC) are notorious for their strict guidelines for members' attire at the Spring Carnival, with visitors as young as 12 expected to abide by the rules. However, the club has recently evolved its guidelines — giving the all clear for male members to wear shorts, as long as they are on or below the knee, even to the exclusive marquees of the Birdcage.

"This is not about becoming casual or relaxing rules," VRC chairman Neil Wilson said. "It's the opposite ... This is not a case of anything goes."

ABC Breakfast hosts respond to updated rules

The updated guidelines were announced last month, however the change was mentioned on ABC Breakfast on Friday and was met by a mixed reaction from hosts.

"Look, I just think there’s some knees full stop that probably should not be seen, that’s my general feeling," Lisa Millar joked, while her co-host Emma Rebellato likened the change to when Aussie schoolgirls would have the length of their skirt checked.

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The VRC have a dress code for guests in an attempt to uphold prestige associated to the club, however many have broken the rules at the Spring Carnival previously, with celebrities some of the main culprits. Bare midriffs and exposed backs, as well as casual clothing items like jeans and runners, are strictly prohibited in the members area.

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