is a guide to country Victoria that just happens to end up at the races. It's also a great way to support rural communities that have had a tough trot with bushfires, floods and drought in recent years. Led by locals, meanders through the charm and character of country Victoria and revels in the people and places that make it unique. You'll encounter everything from tractor pulls and handcrafted scarecrows to country pubs and swimming holes you'll never forget. You'll end up at the finest country racetracks in the state, where the going is good and the only dead-cert is that you'll have a great time. (And the only jumps are leaps of joy.) What, where and who to visit en route. The best sights, flavours and lodgings. Inspiration for day trips and weekenders from Melbourne.