Acting responsibly will ensure a great day for all racegoers at this year's Ballarat Cup

AS THE city prepares for one of the biggest events on its annual calendar – the running of the sportsbet.com.au Ballarat Cup on Saturday – thoughts turn to what to wear, whether an umbrella might be needed and which horses to look out for as a good tip.

As thousands of people from not only Ballarat, but around the state, converge on the Dowling Forest Racecourse, thoughts also need to turn to how much alcohol will be consumed and how well people  will behave at the end of such a big day.

Far too often photographs appear, not only in the media but on social sites like Facebook and Instagram, of elegantly dressed men and women in not so elegant poses at the end of a big function, whether it be a horse race, a pop concert or even a wedding.

Too often the public witnesses unruly behaviour at events after the over-consumption of alcohol. Too often what should be a day of fun and celebration is ruined by alcohol-fuelled violence, verbal abuse and people generally behaving badly. While this is in the minority in most cases, for the majority of those attending these events it can mar would should be a day of happy memories.

And, it goes without saying, if you are driving to Saturday’s Ballarat Cup, don’t drink and drive.

Patrons of the Cup have been urged to leave their cars at home if they intend to drink. 

There will be plenty of public transport to and from Dowling Forest for those who think they might over-indulge. Shuttle buses to the race course will run from Wendouree and Ballarat railway stations in accordance with V/Line arrival and departure times on Cup day. Buses will also be running from Little Bridge Street between 10.30am and 1pm, with return buses from the turf club from 4.30pm until 8pm. 

And if you think you can get away with drink driving after the Cup, think again.

Ballarat police will be conducting an operation during the Ballarat Cup to target a range of issues, including drink driving and other traffic offences.

Police want Cup patrons to have a great time, but also behave responsibly and to arrive home safely.

This warning follows on the heels of statistics which prove one-in-four deaths on Victorian roads involves someone driving with a blood alcohol reading of more than .05.

With the Christmas festive season almost in full swing, these warnings are very timely.