Background Information
About the VRC and Melbourne Cup Carnival
Since its establishment in 1864, the VRC has been instrumental in the development of Australian and Victorian racing and is now the world’s largest member-based racing club with more than 33,700 members. As custodians of Flemington Racecourse, the VRC host the Melbourne Cup Carnival, Australia’s pre-eminent sporting and cultural event which attracted more than 286,000 visitors across the four race days in 2025. While a racing event at its core, the Carnival transcends traditional sporting events with its unique combination of sport, fashion, entertainment, hospitality and business and contributed $533 million to the economy of its home state of Victoria last year. The 2025 Lexus Melbourne Cup was broadcast into 209 countries and territories to a potential global audience of 750 million people, making it one of the world’s biggest horse racing events.
About Sharp EIT Solutions
Sharp EIT Solutions is an Australian-owned business technology partner delivering integrated workplace, communications, and infrastructure solutions to organisations across Australia for more than 20 years. Originally established as a print solutions provider, the company has evolved into a multi-division technology business spanning Managed IT & Cybersecurity, LED Display Screens, Office Printers & Photocopiers, Digital Screens & AV Solutions, and an emerging Commercial Solar & Battery division focused on helping businesses improve long-term energy efficiency and sustainability outcomes.
Operating nationwide, Sharp EIT Solutions supports organisations ranging from small and medium businesses through to major enterprise clients across sport, education, retail, manufacturing, and corporate sectors. The company has established long-standing partnerships across the Australian racing industry, including with the Australian Turf Club and the Melbourne Racing Club, and has previously sponsored the Moonee Valley Racing Club. Its broader client portfolio includes organisations across education, sport, food and beverage, travel, and technology.