Labor Minister for Racing Martin Pakula yesterday (October 25) visited Yarra Valley Racing to announce the government is investing $48,000 to replace the former TAB building as part of a $96,000 joint funding package.
The building has been replaced with temporary infrastructure and the surrounding grounds have been covered with asphalt and concrete edging.
“The Government is investing in infrastructure upgrades and racing days across Victoria because the racing industry in regional Victoria provides an enormous boost to local economies, and hundreds of local jobs,” Pakula said.
Yarra Valley Racing is providing more than $24,000 towards the project while Racing Victoria contributed more than $24,000 towards the building removal.
The government is also providing more than $29,000 to support a harness racing social club package and $26,000 to support a Christmas race day, from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund, as part of a $155,000 joint funding package.
Also as part of the harness racing social club package, racegoers can book a package for $40 each which includes entry to two race meetings, a racebook and two-course meal in the Yarraview Dining Room at one of Yarra Valley’s feature harness race meetings.
“We’re grateful for the funding we’ve received from the Victorian Government supporting our social club package, Christmas race day and to revamp the facilities at Yarra Valley Racecourse,” said Yarra Valley Racing Club CEO Brett Shambrook
Patrons can choose from Melbourne Cup Day on Tuesday, November 6 2018, the Yarra Valley Pacing Cup Day (Oaks Day) on Thursday, November 8 2018 and the Harness Christmas Raceday on Friday, December 14 2018.
The ‘Festivus for the Rest of Us’ Christmas thoroughbred race meeting will run on Friday 21 December 2018, with the first 500 people to book receiving a $50 discount. Patrons can enjoy a carnival atmosphere with classic New York-style food trucks and live music by DJ Emma Kate.
Country Racing Victoria is providing $4000 towards the Christmas race day.