The Pyrenees is set to celebrate 160 years of racing with the running of the 2017 Avoca Cup this Saturday, supported by a joint funding package worth more than $52,000.
The Andrews Labor Government is contributing more than $21,000 through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund towards the race meeting.
The Avoca Shire Turf Club is also providing almost $22,000 and Country Racing Victoria is contributing $8,500.
Live music will be provided by Zevon and Nicole, along with the Untapped Trio, while DJs will appear in the special Fashions on the Field enclosure.
Jacques the French Waiter will dish up a delicious blend of circus and comedy entertainment in a French-inspired marquee, while family-friendly Tim Tim the clown will keep the laughs coming alongside performances from Dazzling Dan the Magic Man.
There will also be a special ‘history wall’ featuring images and stories from the past 160 years of racing in Avoca.
Avoca Shire Turf Club was founded in 1857, making it one of Victoria’s oldest country racing clubs.
This year’s Cup forms part of Country Racing Victoria’s 2017 Spring Campaign, which includes 51 weekend and feature meetings across the state between 23 September and 26 November.
Since December 2014, the Labor Government has contributed almost $122,000 to support the club, including more than $73,000 for six Raceday Attraction Program initiatives and $48,000 for two major infrastructure projects.
The racing industry in the Central Highlands generates in excess of $96 million for the Victorian economy annually and helps sustain more than 950 full-time equivalent jobs in the region.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“Country racing provides immense economic and social benefits for regional Victoria, which is why we’re proud to support the Avoca Cup for a third consecutive year.”
“This year marks a huge milestone for Avoca Shire Turf Club and I wish the club all the best this weekend.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford
"The Avoca Cup is a fantastic event which brings the community together and attracts people from all over the state which is great news for racing enthusiasts and local businesses.”
Quotes attributable to Avoca Shire Turf Club President Barry Slater
“We encourage everyone to come to Avoca to celebrate 160 years of racing with a fantastic day of family entertainment.”
“We gratefully acknowledge the Victorian Government’s generous and ongoing support for Avoca Shire Turf Club.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020