Melanie C – Joined Don Julio 1942 at Grant Smillie’s Marmont Bar for a Grand Prix After Party to remember!

Historic Chaos at the Australian Grand Prix: A Race to Remember and an Unforgettable Soiree!

The 2025 Australian Grand Prix will surely be etched into the annals of motorsport history. The season opener, held at Albert Park, was a rollercoaster of emotions for Formula One enthusiasts, starring our own Oscar Piastri battling fiercely for a podium finish. For 44 exhilarating laps, Piastri held strong in second place, displaying his raw talent and determination. However, in a thrilling twist of fate, it was McLaren’s Lando Norris who claimed victory amidst the chaos of unpredictable weather and challenging racing conditions that kept fans at the edge of their seats.

But the excitement didn’t stop with the checkered flag! The Don Julio 1942 After-Race Soiree promised to be just as unpredictable as the race itself. 

Jonathan Morgan, Marketing Director at Diageo, said: “We love bringing people together to celebrate, and after-party vibes have been missing from the Grand Prix for a while, so we’re stoked to bring it back in true Don Julio style! With the buzz in the air and summer sunsets still to enjoy, we’re set for an unforgettable night at Marmont. It’s going to be a blast—great tequila, amazing energy, and the perfect chance to raise a glass of our finest 1942 to one of Australia’s biggest sporting events!

Held at the exclusive Marmont Bar and overseen by managing partner Grant Smillie, who is bringing his elaborate Hollywood vibes to Melbourne , the after-party was a star-studded affair, filled with A-list celebrities, athletes, and music icons. The anticipation grew as guests awaited the surprise performance from a special guest, and who better to electrify the night than the fabulous Melanie C of Spice Girls fame?

Melanie C said, “I’m thrilled to have joined Don Julio 1942 at Crown Marmont tonight and round out such a huge weekend of sport and entertainment in Melbourne. This is what it’s all about!”

Turned DJ, Melanie C brought the house down against the stunning Illuminating Dom Julio backdrop inside Marmont. The electrified A-list crowd included Sharon Johal, Anna Robards, and trendsetter Lana Wilkinson, were all up dancing and thrilled at the presence of Melanie C in the house! With luminaries like Effie Kats, Nathan Buckley, and Brodie Ryan in attendance, the energy was palpable! As the night unfolded, Khanh Ong took his turn behind the decks, keeping the party vibes soaring. 

Grant Smillie, Managing Partner of Marmont, shared his excitement at the opportunity to raise Melbourne’s profile as a global cultural leader: “Melbourne is known for hosting some of Australia’s best events, and this weekend has been no different as the city came to life on the world stage. We jumped at the chance to bring to life this event with Don Julio 1942, keeping summer alive with the ultimate world-class after-party.”

As the dance floor filled with familiar faces, including the likes of Jessie Murphy, Sam & Snezana Wood, Unice Abwoyo, Curtis Stone, Joey Scandizzo, Brooke Pitt and Chris Kontos, the atmosphere reached a fever pitch. 

Guests sipped on signature cocktails while indulging in a one-time-only 1942 cake pop that was as decadent as it was delicious. With a lavish pour of Don Julio 1942 infused in its rich ganache, this exclusive treat elevated the entire experience to an extraordinary level, making it a night to remember.

The combination of thrilling motorsport and an unforgettable after-party created an electric vibe that resonated throughout the city. As the sun set over Melbourne, the spirit of celebration continued to soar, leaving everyone buzzing about the incredible race and the equally impressive soirée.

In the end, the Australian Grand Prix was not just about the triumphs and trials on the track; it was about the connections made, the memories forged, and the celebration of sport and spirit. With Oscar Piastri’s stunning performance and Lando Norris’s victory, this season opener has set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating Formula 1 season.

Written by Melinda Sullivan.