With Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie absent, a prominent Zara Tindall brought Ballarat-born designer Rebecca Vallance into King Charles’ closest racing circle.

Zara and Mike were the first of the royals to arrive at today's opening event, with King Charles and Queen Camilla expected to attend all five days of the long-awaited affair.

With Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie absent, a prominent Zara Tindall brought Ballarat-born designer Rebecca Vallance into King Charles’ closest racing circle.