The bar was set high at Racefest on Saturday, as the crowd flowed in for the opening day of the Channel Seven Brisbane Racing Carnival.

While crowd numbers reportedly dwindle around the country, the BRC was pleased with an increase in attendance from 2009.

Fantastic weather and a live performance from pop sensation Ricki-Lee all added to the mix for a vibrant day.

BRC Members and their guests christened The Falvelon Bar and Celebration Lawn. Second to none for comfort and convenience, these facilities are so close to the track you can see the steam rise from the saddle cloths.

Another favourite viewing area was the new Mounting Enclosure, accessible from both the Public and Members area. This new world class facility is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, with licensees giving the new facilities the thumbs up.

Hot favorite Ortensia had a good run in the Group 1 BTC Cup. But it was Canungra trained Albert The Fat who defied the challenges of some of Australia’s top sprinters to win the 1200 metre race. Trainer Eden Petrie was visibly chuffed with Albert The Fats win and those who enjoyed celebrating with his large syndicate of owners can hope to do it all again, when he returns for the Doomben 10,000.

Off the track there was plenty of dazzle, with Channel Seven Carnival Ambassador Sofie Formica, Fashions on the Field host Richard Champion, The Brisbane Broncos and stars of the Queensland Firebirds all spotted and snapped by many a punter.

The Hardy Brothers Jewellers and MSIT Fashions on the Field, Young Designer Category was hotly contested by around 30 hopefuls. Former model Tovah Cottle, who is a third year student at MSIT, took home both first and third with her sophisticated designs.

Kirks Doomben Cup Family Day is this Saturday, 22nd May. Kids can come for free and enjoy meeting Packed to the Rafters stars Jessica Marais and James Stewart, who will be at the track for a fan photo and autograph session.

There’s free rides galore including Pony Rides and The Bat Tower PLUS the family can enter the Hardy Brothers Jewellers and Pumpkin Patch Fashions on the Field for some great prizes.