Some of Australia’s best thoroughbreds will be on show at the Bendigo Racecourse this weekend as part of a $152,000 racing spectacular supported by the Andrews Labor Government.
One of Victoria’s premier racing events, the Golden Mile Raceday on Saturday 19 March, will provide patrons with world-class entertainment trackside and a range of family-friendly activities off the track.
Racegoers will experience all the excitement of seeing top horses, trainers and jockeys vying for a share in more than $1 million in prize money and bonuses across nine races, including in the Victorian Owners and Breeders Incentive Scheme (VOBIS) Gold Rush, the Listed Bendigo Guineas and the Golden Mile.
Families will be treated to a live acoustic band, as well as a jumping castle, mobile play zone and sports activities for the children.
Golden Mile Raceday also coincides with the city’s Mad for Marilyn exhibition and patrons are encouraged to dress-up like the iconic 1950s actress in a ‘Dress Like Marilyn’ competition for a chance to win a trip for two to Hollywood, valued at $5000.
The Labor Government is contributing more than $33,000 towards the event, courtesy of the Victorian Racing Industry Fund Raceday Attraction Program.
The Bendigo Jockey Club is providing more than $88,000 and Country Racing Victoria is contributing $14,000. Local businesses and club sponsors have also put $16,000 towards the event.
The racing industry in the Loddon region generates more than $166 million for the Victorian economy and helps sustain more than 1640 full time equivalent jobs locally.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“Country racing attracts valuable tourism to our regional cities and towns and provides the chance to see some of the best that racing has to offer in some of the most historic cities in the state.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“Bendigo Golden Mile Raceday is one of the Victoria’s premier race meets, a great day out for Bendigo locals, and the Andrews Labor Government is pleased to support this wonderful event.”
Quotes attributable to Bendigo Jockey Club Chair Margot Falconer
“This is the fourth bet365 Golden Mile Raceday we’ve held since 2013 and this funding from the Victorian Government will ensure it’s our best event yet.”
“The support we receive through the Raceday Attraction Program is invaluable to our club and guarantees that we can continue to match it with the best that racing has to offer.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020