I wouldn't waste your money on VIP tickets, they are aimed really at the corporate hospitality brigade who want to entertain and impress clients etc and don't really give you anything that you couldn't get outside of the VIP enclosure other than a glass or two of bubbly and a few prawn sandwiches.

The paddock is open to all, and most of the riders are approachable in the paddock if you choose your moment and avoid the pre race build up.