Horse enthusiasts in the northern Victorian town of Boort will benefit from two funding initiatives announced today by the Andrews Labor Government today.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula announced a funding package of more than $16,000 for the Central Victorian Pacing & Trotting Championships race meeting in the town on Friday 27 January.
In addition, another $20,000 will be allocated to a new horse wash at Boort Park.
The horse wash will be used by the Boort Trotting Club (BTC) which is located at the park, and will also benefit the many horses that participate in the annual Boort Show.
The existing galvanised iron horse wash has deteriorated and will be demolished. The new concrete stalls will be easier to clean and maintain and will provide a safer environment.
The Government is contributing $10,000 to the horse wash, courtesy of its Victorian Racing Industry Fund (VRIF), with Harness Racing Victoria providing the same amount.
The horse wash is expected to be completed in time for the Boort Pacing Cup meeting on 19 March.
The Boort Trotting Club has been granted a second race meeting this year and will host the final of the Central Victorian Pacing & Trotting Championships.
The Government will provide funding of $8300 from the VRIF Raceday Attraction Program, along with over $6000 from the club, $1000 from Harness Racing Victoria and $1200 from local businesses.
The championships traditionally showcase the best up-and-coming horses from country Victoria over a series of race meetings at Maryborough, Charlton and Wedderburn with the best horses taking part in the final at Boort.
Harness racing in the Goulburn region generates more than $58 million in annual economic benefit with more than 580 full- time equivalent jobs.
Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“Harness racing provides a great economic and social boost to regional Victoria and the Government is pleased to support these two funding initiatives for the Boort racing community.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Steve Herbert
“Boort Park is an important sporting and social facility in northern Victoria and the funding announced today will benefit the trotting club and its patrons, as well as the horses and owners who attend the Boort Show.”
Quote attributable to the Boort Trotting Club President John Campbell
“We are proud to be hosting the Central Victorian Pacing & Trotting Championships and we are grateful for the support from the Government. The new horse wash will also be a welcome addition to Boort Park.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020