VRC BUSHFIRE RELIEF INITIATIVES

The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) is working in collaboration with the broader racing industry to help communities affected by the devastating bushfires.  

In recent days we have announced the following initiatives:

• On February Twilight Race Day the VRC will be selling raffle tickets on course for two money can’t buy race day experiences, with all funds going to The Salvation Army Disaster Appeal for bushfire relief.
• Entrance proceeds from Chester Manifold Stakes Day on Saturday 11th January, January Twilight Race Day on Saturday 18th January and February Twilight Race Day on Sunday 9th February will go to the VIC Bushfire Disaster Appeal.
• Firefighters and their families will receive free entry to Flemington Racecourse on both Chester Manifold Stakes Day and January Twilight Race Day. Please present ID at the gate. 
• Race names on January Twilight Race Day will honour and recognise the incredible work of firefighters, emergency services workers and volunteers who have sought to protect and provide for those affected by bushfire.
• On Chester Manifold Stakes Day, January Twilight Race Day and February Twilight Race Day donations can be made to The Salvation Army (cash tins and via EFTPOS) in The Club Stand Lobby and the foyer of Saintly Place.
• On Chester Manifold Stakes Day, January Twilight Race Day and February Twilight Race Day Australian Trainers Association, Ascot Saddlery and Southern Cross Feeds will have pop-up stores on course where racegoers can purchase supplies that will then be donated to the equine community in fire affected areas.
• Donations of horse equipment of all sizes, such as head collars, leads and rugs, in good working condition can be dropped off at VRC Head Office during business hours

The VRC has already pledged a financial contribution, alongside other metropolitan racing clubs, to the Bendigo Bank Community Fund. The total amount donated will be matched by Racing Victoria (RV).

The Victorian Thoroughbred Racing Industry, including Racing Victoria (RV), the metropolitan racing clubs and Country Racing Victoria (CRV), will continue to work on a number of initiatives, equine welfare support, fundraising activities and practical support for people affected by the bushfires. 

We will continue to communicate these initiatives to you through this channel. Be sure to keep checking in.

Looking to make a financial donation? Below are a number of organisations supporting the bushfire crisis:

• Community Enterprise Foundation (Bendigo Bank)
• Country Fire Authority
• Salvation Army
• Australian Red Cross