3 ANZAC DAY RACE DAY national Anzac Day holiday goes back to 1920, with the understanding that it would be “solemnly observed” – specifically meaning no horse racing. In 1925, Victoria passed its first Anzac Day Observance Act, closing shops, theatres, and hotels on 25 April and forbidding racing and sports gatherings. This legislation stayed in force well beyond the Second World War. Other states slowly eased restrictions. In 1937, Adelaide inaugurated Anzac Day races at Morphettville, raising funds for needy former servicemen and dependants. Sydney allowed afternoon football, but not racing until 1953. New Victorian legislation in 1960 allowed the VRC to conduct races on Anzac Day under strict conditions. A late starting time ensured no clashes with the traditional Anzac Day march through the city. Any profits were to be directed to special Anzac Day funds. The VRC planned its first Anzac Day races for 1960, but torrential rain forced the meeting’s cancellation. This is why 1961 was Flemington’s first Anzac Day race meeting. Race One was the Nurses’ Stakes, followed by the Army Handicap, Navy Handicap and Air Force Poppies scattered across the Flemington Front Lawn.
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