Geelong Cup abandoned as wild winds hit

BY NATHAN RIVALLAND AND ABBY PARDEW

Racing at the Geelong Cup has been halted for the day, as damaging winds batter the region.

Following advice from the State Emergency Service and the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), Geelong Racing Club chief executive Luke Rayner called an abrupt stop to the day’s racing at 2.15pm, and each of the hospitality marquees were evacuated.

During the race prior to the call, the Dundee Rock Construction Classic BM70 Handicap, severe winds presented challenging conditions for both horses and jockeys, and the track’s barriers could be seen visibly shaking and falling over onto the racecourse.

With winds upwards of 46kmh and gusts of up to 76kmh expected to continue until at least 5pm, the decision was made shortly after 3pm to suspend the event.

A contingency plan is currently being discussed, and it is hoped the remainder of the day’s events can instead take place tomorrow.

Weather advice from BoM suggests the worst is still to come, with the afternoon expected to bring with it the strongest winds of the day.

BOM senior meteorologist Angus Hines said gusts over the next few hours have the potential to reach 90 to 100kmh.

“That is wind strong enough to bring down branches and trees, make it difficult to drive on the roads, cause power outages and potentially even damage cars or property,” he said.

There is also a risk of thunderstorms across the south of the state. Low rainfall totals are expected, however the storms could bring enhanced wind gusts.

Residents are encouraged to secure any loose items and stay indoors where possible.

For more information and to stay up to date with current warnings, head to bom.gov.au