Tomato fight traditions come to Melbourne

Spanish tomato throwing traditions are being brought to Melbourne with a La Tomatina inspired tomato battle at Flemington Racecourse.

Spanish tomato throwing traditions are being brought to Melbourne in a La Tomatina inspired event. (AAP)

Horses are making way for tomatoes at Flemington Racecourse as a Spanish-inspired festival comes to Melbourne.

Tomato Battle organisers expect up to 5000 fruit-throwing fanatics will hurl up to 130 tonnes of tomatoes at one another on Saturday.

Organisers say the festival, which also includes music and drinks after the battle, aims to be a combination of Spain's La Tomatina festival and Germany's Oktoberfest.