The Andrews Labor Government is helping Caulfied racegoers enjoy a big day of racing in support of local charities, as part of the Melbourne Racing Club’s Foundation Race Day at Caulfield Racecourse this Saturday.
The Labor Government is contributing more than $40,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund Raceday Attraction Program, as part of the $120,000 joint funding package.
All funds and profits raised on the day will be shared with 15 charities and not-for-profit organisations, including the Alfred Hospital Foundation, Down Syndrome Victoria, Mirabel Foundation and Fight Cancer Foundation.
Melbourne Racing Club will donate the sponsorship fee for six races to participating groups, and each group will also be partnered with a horse in the Melbourne Racing Club’s Foundation Cup, providing $20,000 to the winner. Second place will get $10,000 and third $5000.
Other fundraising activities will include a raffle, an auction and money donated from bar sales. Live music from Jason Dean and Tyler Boyd will keep racegoers entertained, while kids can enjoy sports activities.
Melbourne Racing Club is providing $79,000 towards the day’s activities.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has contributed more than $1 million to support 11 racing events and three infrastructure projects at Caulfield Racecourse.
The racing industry in metropolitan Melbourne generates more than $1.5 billion for the Victorian economy every year and helps sustain more than 13,590 full-time equivalent jobs locally.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“The MRC Foundation Race Day has become a significant annual event for the racing industry to support charitable and not-for-profit organisations, helping them continue their vital work in the community.”
“We are investing in racing events across Victoria because they help boost tourism and provide local jobs.”
Quotes attributable to Melbourne Racing Club Foundation Chair Patricia Faulkner AO
“The Victorian Government has consistently supported our MRC Foundation Day since its inception in 2014, and we’d like to thank the government for once again supporting us in 2018.”
“The MRC Foundation Race Day is a fantastic opportunity for the club, the racing industry and racegoers to give back to the community, while enjoying a packed program of racing and other entertainment.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020