THEY came from far and wide to see some of the country's best stallions at Darley's annual parade on the weekend.
Fine weather greeted spectators from across the Upper Hunter as well as visitors from interstate and New Zealand.
The presence of the Melbourne Cup added to the electric atmosphere at Darley’s two properties, ‘Kelvinside’ near Aberdeen, and the former Ingham family’s ‘Woodlands’ holding that adjoins Coolmore stud near Jerrys Plains.
Godolphin’s Head of Sales Alastair Pulford said the “unique” parade proved to be extremely successful.
“It’s just a great event for the whole industry,” he said.
“We were delighted that the weather was good and the stallions looked great.
“One of the highlights is just how many people make an effort to come from so far away; the amount of people who visit from interstate and New Zealand increases every year.
“It’s become very much a tourist event that brings in a lot of money to the hospitality industry around the area.
“All of our catering is done locally so it really assists businesses here.
“It’s very difficult to get accommodation in the area and most of the pubs are full.
“The parade is just so unique, I don’t think it happens anywhere else in the world.
Mr Pulford thanked the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and Emirates Australia for making the Melbourne Cup available for display.
