Punters had tipped 12 time legendary trainer Bart Cummings’ two horses, last year’s winner Viewed (seventh) and Roman Emperor (21st) as well sentimental South Australian favourite Alcopop (sixth) to take home the cup.

Warringah (last) and Roman Emperor got out to an early lead but were chased down in the final stages of the race when Shocking, who jumped from barrier 22, emerged from three deep to chase down European horse Crime Scene to win by a length and give last year’s runner up jockey Corey Brown his revenge.

On the day the Reserve Bank raised interest rates by a quarter percent, it did not stop NSW and VIC punters recording the highest betting figure since 2006, rising 7.8 per cent with a combined $95.6million spent on the race that stops the nation.

Glen Innes and District Services Club manager Pat Lonergan said they had the biggest crowd they have ever had with the kitchen serving 126 meals (not including bar meals) and TAB figures soaring to 18 per cent up on last year.

Meanwhile at the Railway Tavern punters packed out three rooms - the front bar, dining room and beer garden to watch the race on three big screens. Having no TAB facilities meant the New England Club was quiet come race time, But the Monday night Calcutta was a success with the pool reaching $7075.

While there were riches to be had on the track, off the track there was much to be left desired with punters forgoing the traditional race wear to opt for the smart casual look.