From politicians to celebrities, the Melbourne Cup attracts them all.

Chris Smith has been joined by some of Australia’s biggest names at Flemington Racecourse ahead of the race that stops the nation.

Design guru Neale Whitaker, leading hairstylist Joh Bailey, celebrity food critic Matt Preston and comedian Nick Giannopoulos were among them.

Nick is sticking with the original favourite Yucatan to take out the ‘race that stops the nation’.

And he’s also got some controversial things to say about Sydney…

Leading hairstylist Joh Bailey tells Chris what’s trending in the fashion stakes this year.

Matt Preston, who is forever immaculately dressed, has weighed in on the fashion on the field.

He says renowned chef Neil Perry has committed “four cardinal sins” at Flemington this afternoon.

He’s also given his tip for the Melbourne Cup.

Click PLAY below to hear from Matt Preston and Attica head chef Ben Shewry

Neale Whitaker says he’s the worst person to ask when it comes to picking a winner in the Melbourne Cup.

But he’s giving his two cents anyway!

Click PLAY below for the full chat with Neale Whitaker

See the photos from Flemington

Attica Head Chef Ben Shewry and Matt Preston

Kate Waterhouse

Nick Giannopoulos

Sports Minister Bridget McKenzie

NSW Better Regulation Minister Matt Kean