Club Stand

The VRC's new Club Stand promises to be bold and unique, transforming Flemington and firmly placing the VRC among the top racing clubs globally. Evolution is natural and necessary, and the VRC knows that Members and racegoers deserve a world-class facility.

The commencement of construction is dependent on a number of factors, however the Club has taken the next steps in developing the Club Stand by completing a tender process to build the stand. We have shortlisted two suitable building companies and plan to award the tender in the next few months.

With the new Club Stand firmly in our sights, this year may mark the last time Members experience the Melbourne Cup Carnival from the Members' Old Grandstand. We invite you to join us in celebrating the Members' Old Grandstand at this year's Carnival as we move towards bringing the world-class Club Stand to life.

Setting new benchmarks

The dynamic design by award-winning architects Bates Smart is superior in quality and innovation. The curvilinear style embodies the spirit of Flemington and the Melbourne Cup Carnival, encouraging movement, socialisation and engagement. Facilities and finishes will be of the highest quality throughout, and the Club’s rich heritage will be preserved thorough familiar elements and new, modern updates.

With a significant increase on the Members’ Old Grandstand in the number of bars and restaurants, as well as the addition of a beautiful rooftop garden, the new Club Stand will be a sought-after raceday destination. Its superior views of the track and the course will afford Members the opportunity to enjoy Flemington, and the outstanding racing, like never before.

Quite simply – the new Club Stand will epitomise the celebration of a day at the races.

For more information about the Flemington Masterplan please visit flemingtonlife.com.au or email info@flemingtonlife.com.au

Club Stand FAQs

What is the capacity of the Club Stand?

The Club Stand capacity is substantially more than that of the Members’ Old Grandstand. To put the scale of the building into perspective the existing Members’ Old Grandstand is approximately 9,000m and the new Club Stand more than twice the size at over 18,000m².

Will the new Club Stand mean an increase in Membership numbers?

The Club paces the Membership base in line with the capabilities of on-course facilities. While an increase in facility capacity will allow for more Members, enhancing comfort levels are a priority. The Club is committed to providing Members with a superior raceday experience.

How much will the new Club Stand cost?

The Club Stand is expected to cost approximately $128 million.

How will the new Club Stand be funded? What impact will this have on my subscription fees?

The Club Stand will be funded through a mixture of debt and operating profits/cash. The Club has no plans for the funding of the new Club Stand to substantially impact Membership fees.

What venues can I expect in the new Club Stand?

While the interior venues are still in development, the new Club Stand plans to recreate existing facilities such as the Members’ Dining Room and Champagne Bar. In addition, the Club Stand will provide a number of new and exciting raceday hospitality experiences including; restaurants, bars, casual dining and lounge areas for Members to enjoy.

Will the new Club Stand offer reserved seating to Members over the Melbourne Cup Carnival?

The Club plans to continue to offer reserved seating for Members in both Grandstands (The Grandstand and the Club Stand).

Will there be a dedicated area for Life Members seating in the Club Stand?

The Club plans to continue to accommodate Life Members with a dedicated area for seating in the Club Stand.

Will the Club Stand retain the Members’ Dining Room and Members’ Only Bar?

The new Club Stand will recreate popular areas such as the Members’ Dining Room, a Members’ Only Bar and Champagne Bar.

Will the new Club Stand provide an area for Owners and Trainers?

A separate development to the Club Stand will be created for Owners and Trainers. The Owners and Trainers stand will provide seating, race viewing and convenient access to the Mounting Yard.

With the Members’ Old Grandstand being a heritage listed building, what is the process with Heritage Victoria?

The Club has received approval from Heritage Victoria to demolish and replace the Members’ Old Grandstand. The Club will continue to cooperate with Heritage Victoria throughout this process.

Why was Bates Smart appointed as the architects for the Club Stand?

Bates Smart is one of Australia’s first architecture firms and has a world-renowned presence through its work over the years. Its response to the brief reflected the Board’s aim to create an impactful building that would become the heritage of the future. Submissions were called for and received from several architects.

What are the timings to start building the Club Stand?

The VRC intends to announce a firm timeline on the construction of the Club Stand in the coming months.