Winning spot in car park Derby

Some of the best days at Derby Day are had by people who never quite make it to to the track.

As thousands line up for drinks, food and the loo inside Flemington Racecourse for Derby Day, hundreds are enjoying a more sedate pace in the car park.

The Members' Unreserved Car Park is, in fact, one of the most reserved places to be on Derby Day, as racegoers picnic on everything from champagne and prawns to beer and chips - from the tailgate of a BMW or the boot of a Commodore.

The Watkins family were carrying on a 13-year tradition on Saturday - albeit with a small group of just 15, compared with the 40 they have mustered in previous years.

"It's just a lovely, relaxed day - much more pleasant out here where you have your own food and drink and can sit in the sun," Watkins matriarch Robyn said.

Ms Watkins said the weather had been poor but that wouldn't stop the annual outing.

Robin and her husband Gary had ventured in to watch a race early in the day before retreating to the car park.

Robin's daughter Erin Cervelli said she had been inside the track, too - a departure from previous years.

"Some years I haven't been inside - I didn't even know if there were horses," she said.

Getting a spot in the car park takes commitment - members queue at the gates from well before the 7am opening to secure a place.

Other Victorian Racing Club members don't have to hurry - they use the reserved parking spaces that bear their name and are free whenever they want them.

American Quila Israelson, who is dating Ms Watkins' son, said the Derby Day car park ritual was a bit like the tailgating tradition of picnicking in the car park at American football games.

"But this is so much better than football - you get to dress up," she said.