Photo essay: Scenes from the Melbourne Cup Parade

Yesterday’s Melbourne Cup Parade was hit with heavy rain, harsh winds and protests from animal rights activists. The event ended 30 minutes earlier than expected due to the weather and protests.

Jeremy Gan braved the cold Melbourne day to photograph the event.

Protesters holds signs up in front of the police barricade. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

Protesters holds signs up in front of the police barricade. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

Performers prepare for the parade march. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

A rider walks their horse around the park after the parade. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

Crowds shelter from the rain. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

Performers and staff rush through the parade to escape heavy rain. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

Police look on as protesters call for horse racing bans. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

TV crews film the action. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

Jockeys, trainers and owners talk about the race on stage. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

A 7 News journalist reports in front of the protesters. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

Protest signs line the parade route. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)

Protest signs. (Photo: Jeremy Gan)