Racegoers are set to flock to the Pakenham Racing Club this Saturday, 9 December, as the Pakenham Cup takes centre stage.
The Andrews Labor Government is contributing $49,000 through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to support the race day, and a further $8,000 to upgrade the veterinary facilities at the club’s home at Racing.com Park.
The racing action will be supported by a range of trackside entertainment, including DJ Pete, and special ticketing offers. Kids will be entertained with an animal petting zoo, face painting and Santa will also visit the track.
The popular Fashions on the Field competition will be hosted by former local jockey Casey Bruce and feature more than $14,000 worth of prizes. Media personality Shawn Cosgrove and former Caulfield Cup-winning jockey Peter Hutchinson will be on hand as hosts of the Celebrity Marquee.
Shuttle buses will take racegoers safely to and from Pakenham and Tynong railway stations, as well as the nearby Cardinia Club and Club Officer.
The new upgraded veterinary facilities will improve conditions for horses and veterinary staff during the swabbing process, thanks to the installation of a cooling and heating system, insulation, extended walls and a roof for the swabbing area.
The club is contributing more than $52,000 to the Cup day festivities and the veterinary facility upgrades. Country Racing Victoria is also providing an additional $19,000 for Cup day. Local businesses are donating $12,000 in prizes for Fashions on the Field, and Racing Victoria is providing almost $6000 to the veterinary upgrades.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided more than $6.4 million for eight infrastructure projects and seven thoroughbred race day events at Pakenham.
The racing industry in the outer Melbourne region generates more than $375 million every year for the Victorian economy and helps sustain more than 3720 full-time equivalent jobs in the region.
Quote attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“The Pakenham Cup is a highlight on the racing calendar. It helps to bring the community together and supports local jobs during the festive season.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Daniel Mulino
“We’re proud to support the Pakenham Cup and partner with the club, Country Racing Victoria and local businesses to help make this a great community event.”
Quotes attributable to Pakenham Racing Club Chairman Don Duffy
“We’d like to thank the Victorian Government for its generous support of this key date in our racing calendar.”
“Cup day includes a fantastic range of entertainment that offers something for everyone.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020