Under the Public Holidays Act 1993, local governments outside Melbourne can apply to swap Melbourne Cup day with a local public holiday.
In the past, Greater Bendigo City Council has applied for approval to make Bendigo Cup day its local public holiday. This usually falls on the Wednesday before Melbourne Cup day.
This local public holiday only applies to the part of the municipality that is west of the Campaspe River, including Elmore.
The part of the municipality that is east of the Campaspe River, including Heathcote, observes Melbourne Cup day public holiday.
Approval for a local public holiday is usually granted for five years at a time. The previous approval ended on October 29, 2025.
Corporate performance director Angela Hays said council applied for an extension in 2026 so public consultation on the local public holiday could take place for a longer-term decision.
Community members are being asked to choose only one option from three provided (to be applied in 2027):
- Stay the same — continue with the Bendigo Cup day local public holiday for the part of the municipality that is west of the Campaspe River (typically the last Wednesday in October)
- Change — to change the local public holiday to Bendigo Show day for the part of the municipality that is west of the Campaspe River (typically around the fourth Friday in October)
- Change — have the entire Greater Bendigo municipality observe Melbourne Cup day (the first Tuesday in November)
Survey responses and comments will be provided to councillors to help inform their decisions.
The survey closes on Sunday, August 9. To complete the survey, visit Let’s Talk Greater Bendigo: letstalkgreaterbendigo.com.au/local-public-holiday
If having trouble accessing online, contact customer support staff on 1300 002 642.
