- Published:
- Friday 24 November 2017
More than 14,000 people are expected to flock to the Dowling Forest Racecourse tomorrow for the 2017 Ballarat Cup.
The Andrews Labor Government is providing more than $48,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund Raceday Attraction Program to support the event.
It will include the return of the hugely popular ‘Hothouse’ enclosure which offers a music festival experience including a live band, DJs, and a big screen to catch all the action on the track.
There are 80 Hothouse packages available inclusive of complimentary return shuttle buses from the Ballarat Town Hall to ensure that patrons can get safely to and from the track.
The club is also contributing more than $57,000 towards its premier race meeting and Country Racing Victoria is providing $9,000.
The Ballarat Cup is the second last race meeting of Country Racing Victoria’s 2017 Spring Racing Campaign covering 51 weekend and feature races across country Victoria between 23 September and 26 November 2017.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $1.3 million to support seven infrastructure projects and 11 race day initiatives, covering 22 meetings, at Ballarat.
The racing industry in the Central Highlands Region generates more the $96 million for the Victorian economy annually and helps sustain over 950 full-time equivalent jobs in the region.
Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“Country racing provides enormous economic benefit to local communities, which is why we’re pleased to be supporting the Ballarat Cup for a fourth consecutive year.”
Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight
“The Ballarat Cup is a great community event which attracts thousands of racegoers from around the state. It creates local jobs, supports the economy and boosts tourism in our region.”
Quotes attributable to Ballarat Turf Club CEO Lachlan McKenzie
“The Ballarat Cup has grown to become one of the most celebrated race days of the year, and it wouldn’t be possible without the continued support we receive from the Victorian Government.”
“We encourage everyone to make their way to the Central Highlands this weekend and join us for a great day of racing and trackside entertainment.”