- Published:
- Sunday 25 September 2016
Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today officially launched the Black Caviar Trail of Champions in the picturesque lakeside town of Nagambie, in what will be a major boost to the local region.
The $30,000 project was delivered with $20,000 funding from the Andrews Labor Government. It will capitalise on the region’s long history as one of Australia’s premier thoroughbred regions as well as the many natural attractions, excellent restaurants and wineries in the area.
Commencing at Living Legends in Greenvale and concluding at Chatswood Stud near Seymour, the touring route features 25 designated sites of significance along a distance of 160 kilometres, taking participants on a journey through Kilmore, Seymour, Northwood, Avenel and Nagambie.
The full touring route takes three hours to complete and allows participants to customise their tour by selecting which sites they chose to visit.
Each site features a themed plaque with a Quick Recognition (QR) code that participants can scan using their smart phones to access the rich history and stories of the Victorian thoroughbred industry.
The tour also takes in other key points of interest and activities including wineries, cafes, a river cruise and a visit to the iconic statue of Black Caviar who was foaled down in Nagambie, situated on the shores of Lake Nagambie.
The project has been delivered by the Committee of Nagambie Lakes Tourism and Commerce Inc. and combines elements from the racing and tourism industries, which are both key drivers for the local economy.
The Labor Government is working to grow the visitor economy across the state, with the tourism sector contributing $11.5 billion to the regional economy and generating 114,400 jobs annually.
The launch of the Black Caviar Trail of Champions coincides with the inaugural Nagambie Accredited Farmers’ Market and the 2016 Emirates Melbourne Cup Tour which is passing through Nagambie.
The $175,000, 2016 Melbourne Cup trophy will be on display in front of the iconic Black Caviar statue.
Quote attributable to Acting Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development Luke Donnellan
“We’re backing tourism projects through our $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund to help regional and rural Victoria drive visitation, boost local economies, and strengthen communities.”
Quote attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
“The Black Caviar Trail of Champions is set to attract residents and visitors alike to this beautiful region and showcase the area’s historic role as a centre for premier thoroughbred breeding and training.”