Hamilton police Sergeant Paul Stanhope said there would be significant police presence at the Dunkeld Racing Club on Saturday. 

He said police would be focusing on disorderly behavior.

“Punters are urged to have a great day but be safe, don’t drink to excess and don’t drink and drive,” he said. 

“And if you do drive, whether you’re at the cup or not, watch your fatigue levels.”

In 2011, five young people traveling to the Dunkeld races on Blackwood-Dunkeld Road died after their station wagon collided with a truck. 

The truck driver, a 46-year-old Terang man, also died at the scene.

Western region division two road safety manager Acting Senior Sergeant Chris Asenjo said everyone deserved to get to and from the iconic event safely. 

“This is a fantastic event for regional Victoria and it’s an impressive drive to Dunkeld, especially as you get closer and closer to the Grampians,” he said. 

“We want everyone to enjoy the festivities but most of all, we want everyone to be safe. 

“If you are driving a fair distance it’s important you ensure that you’re taking regular rest breaks, swapping drivers and planning your journey. 

“There may be higher than normal levels of traffic on the road and also people who are unfamiliar with our local roads. We encourage everyone to slow down, take their time, enjoy the view and be aware.” 

Acting Senior Sergeant Asenjo said the weekend would see a strong road policing presence. 

"If you decide to drive carelessly, recklessly, or impaired, we will catch up with you,” he said. 

“As police it is our job to enhance community safety but we also just want people to have a good time. So if you’re going to the races, please be safe, look after your mates and if you’re planning on having a bit to drink, don’t get behind the wheel.”

The Dunkeld Racing Club will open its gates at 11am on Saturday. The iconic country cup is expecting to draw a crowd of about 10,000.

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