Animal rights group calls for cancellation of “inherently cruel” Melbourne Cup holiday

Animal rights group PETA has called for the Melbourne Cup holiday to be cancelled.

In a letter sent to the Victorian Trade Minister, PETA called for a replacement public holiday instead.

PETA spokesperson Emily Rice told Neil Mitchell Australians were fed up with the race that takes place on the first Tuesday of November annually.

“Australians are starting to boycott the Melbourne Cup themselves,” she said.

“PETA is talking more about a government level to changing the date of the public holiday and cancelling it so we’re not celebrating something that’s inherently cruel.”

“It’s important to start a dialogue as to why the Melbourne Cup is archaic in Australian eyes.”

Ms Rice proposed a new holiday, celebrating something that she says “more in line” with Australian values.

“We’ve suggested celebrating World Animal Day,” she said.

“Australians are animal lovers and we think that’s more appropriate.”

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