While rain saw the event's celebrity foot race cancelled, the horse races, live music and fashions on the field still drew a decent turnout.

Race committee member Mick Boyd said up to 4000 people turned out for the event, with some coming from as far as the Northern Territory and Western Australia.

``It is a bit down in numbers, but you can't control the weather,'' he said.

``We've still got a lot of hardened regulars, and those who have come for the atmosphere.

``There is a fair bit of a legacy in this event . . . those who have gone before us put in a fair bit of effort, and it's paying off now because it's become a real community event.''

Racegoer Lee Erskine, of Shearwater, said every year she chose a day at the cup over a big New Year's Eve celebration.

``I took it easy last night, planning to have a few drinks today,'' she said.

``It is actually our routine now. We usually sit out along the fence and have a relaxing day, and I always have a fun time.''