- Minister for Racing
The 149th running of the Towong Cup on Saturday will be a celebration for the community as it recovers from the summer bushfires that raged in the Upper Murray.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula today announced that the Andrews Labor Government was backing the Towong Turf Club with a grant of almost $20,000 to help to encourage locals and visitors to attend the meeting and support local tourism operators and workers.
The Towong track narrowly avoided bushfire damage over summer and the region is rebounding as visitors return to the Upper Murray, helped by events like Cup day.
As well as a great day's country racing, there will be activities including live music from band On the Cusp, a jumping castle and face painting for the kids, and Fashions on the Field hosted by HIT FM's Riley-Rose Harper.
Racing expert Shane Matthews will host the Phar Lap Marquee and there will be bushfire recovery merchandise including t-shirts, drink holders and glassware available with proceeds going to local CFA groups. In addition, $5 from every pre-purchased online entry ticket will be donated to bushfire relief.
Shuttle buses will be running between the racecourse and Albury-Wodonga, Walwa, Jingellic, Tintaldra, Khancoban, Colac Colac and Corryong.
The Towong Turf Club has provided more than $21,000 to support attractions at Saturday's Cup meeting with Country Racing Victoria kicking in $8,000.
Since December 2014, the Labor Government has provided almost $115,000 to support five race meetings and three track infrastructure projects at Towong.
As stated by Minister for Racing Martin Pakula
"Towong Cup day provides a great outing for the family and I encourage visitors to consider making a trip to the Upper Murray, which is bouncing back after a tough start to the year."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"I'm really happy that we can support the Towong Turf Club and help it to put on a great day for locals and hopefully, many busloads of visitors."
As stated by Country Racing Victoria chair Lance McMillan
"We're delighted to have the backing of the Victorian Government on this and other initiatives that help our clubs do what they do best - stage great racing events that bring people together and boost local communities."
As stated by Towong Turf Club president Alex Mackinnon
"We thank the government for its support - our Towong Cup meeting is shaping as a real winner and we're keen to welcome families and visitors to enjoy a great day out."
