Monday, 18 December 2017

Gippsland is gearing up for an action-packed summer of greyhound racing, thanks to a joint funding package worth more than $230,000 supported by the Andrews Labor Government.

The 2017-18 Gippsland Carnival will sweep across the region from Boxing Day with the Sale Cup race meeting on December 26. The carnival continues with the Warragul Cup on 13 January, the Traralgon Cup on 27 January, and it winds up with the Cranbourne Cup on 10 February.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced the Labor Government is contributing more than $100,000 through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund towards the carnival.

Greyhound Racing Victoria is providing more than $112,000, while the four participating clubs – Sale & District, Warragul, Traralgon, and Cranbourne greyhound racing clubs – will make a joint contribution of more than $20,000.

Building on the success of the inaugural 2016-17 carnival, this year’s events feature free activities for families, including jumping castles, face painting, slides and interactive sports.

A food truck precinct and live music from local musician and children’s entertainer Julianne Bremner will round out the fun
.
Racegoers will also have the opportunity to win a Gippsland Grazing Trail prize, featuring local products, accommodation, meals and wine tasting at local wineries and restaurants, along with other prizes and giveaways.

Kids will have the opportunity to make new four-legged friends from the Greyhound Adoption Program, who will be mixing with the crowds at all events.

The greyhound racing industry in Victoria generates more than $315 million annually for the Victorian economy and helps sustain more than 3000 full-time equivalent jobs across the state.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing:

“The Gippsland Carnival is one of the highlights on the greyhound racing calendar and we’re proud to be supporting this great series over summer.”

“This carnival provides entertainment for locals and visitors, as well as creating jobs and supporting regional economies.”

Quotes attributable to Greyhound Racing Victoria CEO Alan Clayton:

“We’re grateful for the support of the Victorian Government for the Gippsland Carnival, and look forward to welcoming everyone to our four events this summer.”

“This year’s carnival offers something for everyone, and children and parents alike will be well catered for with family-friendly activities, giveaways and exciting racing on offer.”