- Published:
- Saturday 15 October 2016
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula has announced a joint funding package of almost $40,000 to support today’s Avoca Cup race meeting.
The Andrews Labor Government is providing more than $14,500 towards the event, courtesy of its Victorian Racing Industry Fund Raceday Attraction Program (RAP). The Avoca Shire Turf Club is also contributing almost $16,500, with Country Racing Victoria providing a further $8500.
Last year the club received RAP funding of more than $10,700 which was used to develop a new smartphone and tablet app to promote racing at Avoca.
The app Avoca Races was a first for a country racing club in Victoria and proved popular with racegoers at last year’s cup meeting.
The club will again use the app to inform racegoers and holidaymakers about all the action on and off the track, such as club memberships, hospitality packages, race day competitions as well as fields and results.
The app also contains information on the best local accommodation, restaurants, wineries and tourist attractions.
A key attraction for racegoers heading to Avoca is the large camping ground where families can set up camp the night before race day for just $15, making it an affordable weekend away. Last year there were a record 82 campsite bookings.
Racing in the Central Highlands generates an annual economic benefit of more than $96 million and helps sustain more than 950 full-time equivalent jobs in the region.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“The Andrews Labor Government is proud to support country racing and help fund this year’s Avoca Cup meeting.”
“The Avoca Shire Turf Club has a proud tradition stretching back almost 160 years and offers both locals and visitors the very best in country racing.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford
“Avoca is a hidden gem in Western Victoria and we’re pleased to provide a funding boost which means more people are able to enjoy the delights the Avoca Cup has to offer.”
“I encourage families from around Victoria and interstate to visit Avoca, not just for the Cup, but also for the enchanting Pyrenees Ranges, the rich history of our goldfields, and the vibrancy of our local produce and wine.”
Quotes attributable to Avoca Shire Turf Club President Barry Slater
“We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Victorian Government and we are expecting this year’s cup day to be another resounding success.”
“We are located in the heart of the Pyrenees and, as well as the racing, patrons can enjoy the magnificent scenery and the great food and wine that we are renowned for.”