AAP


Before the race that stops a nation there's the parade that stops a city.


Every year the Melbourne Cup parade, a prelude to Australia's biggest race, draws tens of thousands of people to the CBD for the chance to see the jockeys, trainers and owners.


Bess and Bryn Savage from Western Australia staked out a front row spot on the corner of Bourke and Swanston streets well ahead of the parade that starts at noon (AEDT) on Monday.


They travelled from WA as part of a group of 16 to watch the 2012 Melbourne Cup.


"We love it and we love Melbourne," Mrs Savage said.


The couple's trip is a double celebration, marking the Melbourne Cup and their grandson's 18th birthday.


Huge crowds are expected to brave the gathering rain clouds to catch a glimpse of racing icons past and present during the parade down Swanston Street and finishing at Federation Square.


Trainers and jockeys from the 2012 Melbourne Cup will be joined by former champions Saintly, Doriemus and Rogan Josh.