Suits and ties were replaced with well-worn workpants, while fascinators made way for dirty caps that showed every sign of the sweat and dirt they had soaked up over the years.

It is known as the race that stops a nation and there was no exception for Weir’s base.

While the star trainer was among the glitz and glamour at Flemington to cheer on Signoff (who put in a brave run to finish fourth), it was his ground troops who were holding the fort at home.

More than 20 staff crammed onto Weir’s deck by his pool as the race ran.

For a brief moment it looked like celebrations would erupt as Signoff joined the leaders in the home straight and threatened to deliver Weir his first Melbourne Cup victory.

“Come on Signoff, stick with them,” was the cry.

However, it was not to be in the end as German horse Protectionist cruised to victory.

But the mood was far from dour.

“It wasn’t a bad run at all, he looked really good,” stablehand Rodney Hicks said.

“There is always next year – that’s the way I look at it.”

Horse breaker Brian Davidge was more than pleased with the run.

“For such an inexperienced horse he has done quite well,” he said. “The party would have kicked on for a fortnight if he got up, but oh well.”

For those who had knocked off for the day (many had been at work since 5am), it was time to sit back and enjoy a can of Melbourne Bitter, as opposed to the champagne at Flemington.

For others however, it was back to work as soon as the race was run. 

After all, there is no such thing as a day off at the Darren Weir stables.

patrick.nolan@fairfaxmedia.com.au