CQU Mackay celebrated the Melbourne Cup on Tuesday with a chicken and champagne lunch and some interesting entertainment.

The inaugural “CQU Mackay Campus Stakes”, organised by Pauline McNee, Campus Library Manager, was the undoubted highlight of the lunchtime activities.

The Phantom Race was called by Mackay’s own John Worldon, and the line-up included ‘He’s the Boss’ ridden by jockey Phillip Clift, ‘Madame Marilyn’, ridden by Marilyn Ingham, ‘Stepping Out’, ridden by Lyn Forbes-Smith and ‘Diamonds are Forever’, ridden by jockey Pam Savage.

Other big names included ‘Scottish Heather’, ‘Australian Idol’ and ‘Number Cruncher’.

The race got off to a shaky start, with John Worldon experiencing vocal problems; however he soon settled his vocal style and managed a magnificent call.

It wasn’t a smooth run for all horses however, with \'Madame Marilyn\' taking time out from the race to stop by the campus refectory for some mid-race refreshments and a couple of other horses distracted by the smell of Cabernet Merlot at trackside.

All horses did finish the race however, with first place going to none other than “He’s the Boss”, ridden by Phillip Clift. (No surprises there as he was the odds on favourite!).

Following the excitement of the CQU Campus Cup, prizes were announced for best outfit, won by Peter Baxter and best hat design, won by Heather Mason.

The successful luncheon was enjoyed by approximately 40 campus staff, and many are looking forward to next year’s Mackay Campus Cup, when first place will be hotly contended by some hopeful newcomers.

Photo above: Katrina Richmond (left) and Lyn Forbes Smith show off their stylish hats.

Photo left: Winner of the best hat design was Heather Mason for her fascinating head piece.