Fascinators were out in force and the alcohol flowed freely when the Melbourne Cup stopped the nation for two minutes.

Many enjoyed a bet or two, with a number of successful punters going against the favourite Alcopop and picking the underdog.

Others turned out for the fashions, as the ladies stepped out in their classy Cup attire to enjoy Melbourne Cup lunch in style.

Patrons awaited the race eagerly, eyes glued on the plasma televisions with bets in hand as the barriers opened.

Covering the 3200 metres in no time, Alcopop kept a steady pace throughout.

High hopes were held for the equal favourite and in his first Melbourne Cup, Alcopop competed well with a sixth placing.

The shock of the day came as horse 21 crossed the line in first place.

Shocking, ridden by Corey Brown and trained by South Australian Mark Kavanagh came from behind to take out the cup.

It wasn’t his day this year, but Alcopop fans, there’s always next year.