Racegoers are set to flock to Flemington tomorrow for the Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning as part of a celebration of the world champion sprinter.
The Andrews Labor Government is contributing almost $65,000 from its Victorian Racing Industry Fund to support the Black Caviar, The Great Horse Raceday, with the Victoria Racing Club providing more than $133,000.
The race day is named after Black Caviar who won the Lightning Stakes three years running from 2011 to 2013.
Alongside the high class racing, the day will have an Asian theme with a Hawker style precinct showcasing food from Taiwan, the Philippines and Shanghai. A highlight will be a pop-up restaurant run by celebrity chef and restaurateur Jerry Mai, famous for her Vietnamese flavours.
An array of performers will provide live entertainment, including Japanese drummers, K-Pop dancers, Chinese New Year Lions and a Pikachu host.
Music will be provided by prominent Melbourne artist DJ Sarah, and face painters, balloon artists, and origami craft lessons will provide plenty of fun for kids.
Racegoers will be able to interact with retired racehorses from Living Legends, including former Melbourne Cup winners Prince of Penzance, Brew, Rogan Josh and Might and Power.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has contributed over $13.3 million to support 13 infrastructure projects and three thoroughbred race day events at Flemington 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 Black Caviar, The Great Horse Raceday is a celebration of one of our greatest racehorses at Australia’s premier racetrack.”
“We’re proud to support racing events at Flemington because they generate local jobs, draw tourists to Victoria and deliver significant benefits to the economy.”
Quote attributable to Member for Essendon Danny Pearson
“This is a fantastic cultural event at Flemington which celebrates our diversity and brings the community together.”
Quote attributable to Victoria Racing Club Chief Executive Officer Neil Wilson
"We thank the Victorian Government for its ongoing support of racing at Flemington, including this important day on our calendar, which is always filled with excitement and quality racing."
Reviewed 19 August 2020