Thousands turned out at Sandilong Park to try and pick a winner while they enjoyed their day off.

TAB SportsBet figures showed Victorians have not shied away from a gamble, spending $39.6 million yesterday on Australia’s favourite race – $2.5 million more than last year.

But Mildura bookies took in less money this year and said they were seeing mostly smaller bets.

Bookie Geoff Hahnel said there was a great crowd at the Mildura races but punters had less money to splash around.

“I broke about square on the Melbourne Cup race,” Mr Hahnel said.

“I’ve taken about 25 per cent less than last year because it’s tough times.

“There was no big money today – generally people will bet a couple hundred each way but today it was more 50s.

“I just don’t think people have got the cash they used to have.

“A lot of people don’t bet and normally they place bigger bets.”

For more of this story, purchase your copy of Wednesday’s Sunraysia Daily 04/11/2009.