The Andrews Labor Government today announced it will contribute more than $15,500 towards the historic Marong Cup this Saturday 18 February.
The funding is being provided through Victorian Racing Industry Fund Raceday Attraction Program, and the Bendigo Jockey Club and the local community are jointly contributing more than $20,000.
Trackside entertainment will include a special activity zone for children, including jumping castles, slides, bungee runs, bucking bulls and laser tag.
The Marong Cup is part of Country Racing Victoria’s Relax at the Country Races Campaign, which covers 42 weekend and feature race meetings across regional Victoria from 5 February to 1 April 2017.
The Cup traces its origins back to the Marong Racing Club, which was formed in the 1860s and became a traditional St Patrick’s Day club to help raise funds for the local Catholic community.
The Bendigo Jockey Club has maintained that tradition by continuing to run the annual Marong Cup meeting at Bendigo since 2010.
Fifty per cent of ticket sales from this year’s meeting will go to the Sandhurst Catholic Diocese for distribution to local Catholic primary schools and initiatives that benefit the wider community. Last year, the event raised $48,000 which was distributed to eight schools.
The racing industry in the Loddon region generates more than $166 million in economic benefits and helps to sustain more than 1640 full-time equivalent local jobs.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“The Andrews Labor Government is pleased to support the Marong Cup because it provides great entertainment for the family and supports local schools.”
“The Marong Cup is a great example of the important role that racing plays in regional Victoria to bring the community together.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“We’re proud to support the Marong Cup, which brings people to Bendigo, creates jobs and provides a wonderful day out for all the family.”
Quotes attributable to Bendigo Jockey Club CEO Aaron Hearps
“We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Victorian Government, which will ensure we are able to stage another highly successful fundraising Marong Cup meeting.”
“This a great day for everyone, especially the youngsters, and we are pleased that we again have so many volunteers from local Catholic primary schools assisting with the running of the meeting.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020