Thursday, 9 November 2023 was Ladies Day at Flemington Racecourse and, as is customary, was also celebrated during the tea break at U3AM Group B Bridge session. Class tutor Graeme Mills had prerecorded a witty and informed commentary of the mock Manningham Cup race in which, enigmatically, many of our members were pictured within as jockeys. Wagers had been laid and Liz Hale was the lucky one to predict the winner.

Race caller, (and tutor) Graeme Mills; Liz Hale picked the winner!

In addition, an expert panel adjudicated the Best Dressed Lady and Gentleman Competition. The highlight of the occasion however was the unexpected and much appreciated arrival of none other than Australia’s other honourable Head of State, Dame Edna Everage, who had graciously found time in her crowded A-list diary to pop along and present the prizes.

In an outstanding line-up, Mary Calleja and Joe Console were judged worthy winners of the Best Dressed Competition and were honoured and humbled to receive their trophies from the iconic fashion diva herself.

Best dressed lady, Mary Calleja; Best dressed gentleman, Joe Console

Such was the overwhelming splendour and glamour of Dame Edna’s presence that your reporter was inspired to celebrate the occasion in verse in the style of Banjo Paterson:

Dame Edna Everage, a true Aussie gem,

With lilac hair and glasses, she’s quite the femme.

Her love for gladioli, or “gladdies” as she calls,

And her greeting “Hello, Possums!” that really enthrals.

Dame Edna, with her wisteria hue, 

And her cat-eye glasses, oh so new.

She’s a housewife superstar, with a heart of gold,

And a personality that never gets old.

She’s a true icon, with a style all her own,

And a wit that’s sharper than any razor known.

So here’s to Dame Edna, a true Aussie treasure,

May she live on forever, in our hearts and our pleasure. 

After all the colourful excitement and exhilaration of this most unusual tea break, the customary calm and quiet concentration of the Bridge arena descended once again as members geared up their little grey cells to tackle yet another impossible 3 No Trumps contract.

What will be in store for Ladies Day 2024!

Geoff Sheldon
Member, Bridge Group B