Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on September 2010

Photo by Kerry Raftis (email: kerry@keyshots.com)

Alison Reynolds says: “The Australia Society Tokyo, formed in the 1950s for Australians and friends living in Tokyo, continues to organize enjoyable social events. The autumn BBQ is at the Australian Embassy on October 2, and our Melbourne Cup Luncheon is on November 2. The Melbourne Cup, celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, is about as Australian as you can get. Dubbed the ‘race that stops the nation,’ Australians around the world organize a lunch or other get-together. Ladies dress up—often with hats—and men traditionally wear a yellow rose; there are prizes for the best dressed. The place to be in Tokyo this year is the Grand Hyatt hotel in Roppongi from 11am-3:30pm. Bring some friends, watch the race live, and join in the fun of the ‘Calcutta auction,’ sweepstakes, door prizes and more. All nationalities and friends of Australia welcome. Registration for members is already open (¥14,000), and nonmembers can register from October 4 (¥16,000); email mcup@australiasocietytokyo.com for more info. But The Australia Society Tokyo is not just about having fun. We support various charities, currently Fukudenkai, a children’s welfare home in Hiroo. For more information about our events, becoming a member or sponsorship, see www.australiasocietytokyo.com.”