Sandown Park will host four key greyhound race meetings every Thursday night this month, thanks to a joint funding package of almost $118,000.
The Andrews Labor Government is contributing more than $22,000 through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund Raceday Attraction Program to help attract more people to the track. The Sandown Greyhound Racing Club is also providing more than $95,000.
Patrons who pre-book a dining package will keep cosy in the warmth of the fully enclosed Henry Harrison Grandstand. There will also be musical performances by guitarist David Jones and the Robbie Williams Experience tribute band.
The first race meeting will take place tonight, and the racing highlight will take place next Thursday, 13 July with the running of the Group 2 McKenna Memorial.
First run in 1971, the race is named after renowned club member Jack McKenna, who served as Secretary from 1935 to 1970 and negotiated the purchase of the land upon which the club sits today.
The racing industry in metropolitan Melbourne generates more than $1.5 billion annually for the Victorian economy and helps sustain more than 13,590 full-time equivalent jobs locally.
The Labor Government has provided more than $504,000 to help support 14 greyhound race meetings at Sandown Park since 2014.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
“We’re proud to support greyhound race meetings across Victoria because they create local jobs and help to bring the community together.”
“The Sandown Greyhound Racing Club has a proud history spanning 82 years, and McKenna Memorial is a fitting tribute to the late Jack McKenna.”
Quotes attributable to Sandown Greyhound Racing Club CEO Greg Miller
“It can be hard to leave the house during the winter months, but with our on-track action and great indoor entertainment we’re hoping people will head to the track for a fun night out.”
“We’re grateful for the Victorian Government’s ongoing support, and look forward to putting on a great race meeting each Thursday night throughout July.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020