March 11th, 2025Boost for country racing

Regional racegoers will have a busy calendar of events to look forward to this autumn with a funding boost announced by the state government in recent days.

Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines recently announced more than $350,000 to support 34 racing events in country Victoria from March to May. 

Racing clubs are offering attractions such as live music, children’s activities and shuttle buses – making it a day out for everyone.

With more than 60,000 patrons expected to flock to regional race meetings, the funding will also help clubs expand their event promotion to make sure more people know what’s on offer – boosting visitors to regional areas, supporting local businesses and tourism.

It got off to a good start with the Wangaratta Cup held on Saturday March 1, with the club receiving an $18,000 injection to make the day even bigger and better. 

The Geelong St Patrick’s Cup Day, set for Saturday March 15, will get a $20,000 boost – great news for those wanting to test their Irish Luck on the track. 

Echuca Racing Club will also receive $20,000 for their Country Discovery Raceday on Good Friday for those looking for Easter weekend activities. 

Racing events are held in autumn at local clubs across the Ballarat, Geelong, Hume, Latrobe-Gippsland, North West, Shepparton, Warrnambool and South West regions. 

Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines: “We’re revving up our support for regional racing clubs to deliver country race days that are the perfect day out for seasoned racegoers, families and out-of-towners.”

“We will always back the racing industry which generates more than $4.7 billion for the Victorian economy and helps sustain nearly 35,000 full-time equivalent jobs across all the codes.”

This story based on a Victorian state government media release.