The fascinators are out as Flemington hosts another edition of the Melbourne Cup, but questions are mounting over whether the historic event still commands the country's attention. With declining television ratings, dropping crowd numbers, and growing animal welfare scrutiny, the famous fixture faces an uncertain cultural future.

On this episode of The Summary, host Josh Bryant examines how a nineteenth-century handicap became a national institution and whether modern Australia is falling out of love with it. Historian and author Jim Haynes reflects on the origins of the race, how it cemented itself in the Australian psyche, and its endurance through major global disruptions. Then, journalist Eddie Summerfield reports trackside from Flemington on the ground-level atmosphere, the continuing impact of the "Say Nup to the Cup" movement and shifting punter habits. 

Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary.

The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

The fascinators are out as Flemington hosts another edition of the Melbourne Cup, but questions are mounting over whether the historic event still commands the country's attention. With declining television ratings, dropping crowd numbers, and growing animal welfare scrutiny, the famous fixture faces an uncertain cultural future.
On this episode of&nbsp;The Summary, host Josh Bryant examines how a nineteenth-century handicap became a national institution and whether modern Australia is falling out of love with it. Historian and author Jim Haynes reflects on the origins of the race, how it cemented itself in the Australian psyche, and its endurance through major global disruptions. Then, journalist Eddie Summerfield reports trackside from Flemington on the ground-level atmosphere, the continuing impact of the "Say Nup to the Cup" movement and shifting punter habits. 
Tap the follow button in your podcast app to get the latest episode from The Summary.
The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Get the news you need, exactly when you need it, with The Summary. 

Powered by the national newsrooms of 2GB, 3AW, 4BC, and 6PR, The Summary brings you concise news bulletins every morning and evening to keep you up to date, plus an in-depth look at the story driving the agenda of day - every afternoon. 

The Summary, a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.

Get the news you need, exactly when you need it, with The Summary.&nbsp;
Powered by the national newsrooms of 2GB, 3AW, 4BC, and 6PR,&nbsp;The Summary brings you concise news bulletins every morning and evening to keep you up to date, plus an in-depth look at the story driving the agenda of day - every afternoon.&nbsp;
The Summary,&nbsp;a podcast that keeps you connected to what matters, and why.