Jessica Mauboy Didn't Sing The National Anthem Because Of A Shoe Ultimatum (And Other Melbourne Cup Weirdness)

It’s been almost 24 hours since the Melbourne Cup and seemingly more entertaining stories have emerged in its aftermath than even the historic win by straight-talkin' female jockey Michelle Payne.

The most curious tale of the lot involves the surprise exit from Flemington by Jessica Mauboy, who was scheduled to sing Advance Australia Fair ahead of the race but then... well, didn't.

The singer had already been announced as the national anthem’s performer and was even photographed en route to the track.

#PEACE @jessicamauboy1 en route and bringing true glamour to the Melbourne cup wearing @neridawinter head piece and @by_johnny AW16 look. Beauty by @lindajefferyesmakeup #jessicamauboy #neridawinter #byjohnny #melbournecup #melbournecup2015 #mikeyayoubi

A photo posted by mikey ayoubi (@mikeyayoubi) on Nov 2, 2015 at 7:27pm PST

And yet, when it came time for the anthem, Nadia Aya took to the stage instead, with Mauboy seemingly MIA.

According to The Australian, Mauboy had refused to wear shoes that were supplied by Myer (an official sponsor) during the performance. It’s unknown if she decided against singing on account of the altercation, or if she was asked to step aside over what we are now calling "shoe-gate".

Mauboy’s management confirmed “issues over clothing and preparation” were to blame for her sudden cancellation and that the ARIA-winning singer was “incredibly sorry”.

Victoria Racing Club chief executive Simon Love noted his “disappointment” over Mauboy’s failure to perform, but expressed gratitude towards Aya, who had only 30 seconds to prepare before taking the stage.

In other inexplicable Melbourne Cup news, one lucky gent collected $125,000 after betting $9.84 on the first four horses to place. Those odds were more than 12,000 to 1, if you’re keeping score at home.

Meanwhile, the police officer who was bizarrely pushed to the ground by an overenthusiastic punter has taken it all rather well, considering how swiftly the video of the shove went viral.

Acting Superintendent Stephen Cooper told 3AW Radio today, “I’m certainly copping it from mates all over the world.” (Pun!)

"I certainly don't condone the behaviour but I can certainly see the funny side," he added.

The woman who did the pushing will be charged with assaulting police. Mercifully, this was the only charge laid at the track yesterday.