Yarra Valley Racing will celebrate 70 years of harness racing at its ‘Trots Tradition’ race day next Tuesday, 7 November, thanks to a $78,000 boost supported by the Andrews Labor Government.
The Labor Government is contributing more than $30,000 from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund for the event and Yarra Valley Racing is providing more than $48,000.
The Trots Tradition is an annual family-friendly race day which includes rides, supervised games and activities for kids, musical entertainment and giveaways.
Racegoers will be entertained with live music throughout the day by several groups including the Hurricane Duo. The Fashions on the Field competition, with almost $10,000 of prizes on offer, will be popular with fashionistas.
A big screen will broadcast all the Melbourne Cup action from Flemington.
Complimentary return buses will transport racegoers safely to the track from Lilydale Station.
The Healesville Trotting Club held its first race meeting at Healesville Racecourse on 17 January 1948. To celebrate the occasion, a collection of historical memorabilia from past race meetings will be on display at this year’s event.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $180,000 to support harness racing at Yarra Valley, including $50,000 for two infrastructure projects and $130,000 for four RAP events.
The racing industry in the outer Melbourne region generates more than $375 million for the Victorian economy annually and helps sustain more than 13,590 full-time equivalent jobs locally.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“Melbourne Cup Day is an iconic event on Victoria’s racing and social calendar, and the Yarra Valley provides a scenic backdrop for people wanting to enjoy a great day at the trots.”
“We’re proud to get behind this family-friendly event as part of ongoing efforts to support racing at Yarra Glen.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“This is a fantastic event which will draw thousands to the Yarra Valley and deliver a welcome boost to the local economy.”
Quotes attributable to Yarra Valley Racing CEO Brett Shambrook
“We thank the Victorian Government for its contribution to an amazing day spent with family, friends, a picnic rug, entertainment and a great atmosphere.”
“We encourage people across Melbourne and Yarra Valley to come down for a great day at the trots on the most iconic day in Victoria’s racing calendar.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020