Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) today announced a $10,000 commitment to the Victorian Farmers Federation Disaster Relief efforts to support farmers affected by the bushfires.
Announcing the funding, HRV CEO Dayle Brown said it was important to stand with those people in harness heartland – rural Victoria – during times of adversity.
“Harness racing is an industry with roots firmly entrenched in Victorian Rural communities and we are all gutted by the devastation,” Brown said.
“Today’s commitment of $10,000 will help provide some relief for the hard-working families in these fire-affected regions, because obviously people are doing it really tough out there.
“HRV is also committed to exploring other ways to support industry participants during these challenging times of drought and bushfire.”
The Victorian Farmers Federation’s Disaster Relief fund is coordinating important fodder relief for farmers affected by bushfires in the Gippsland and Upper Murray regions.
Brown also thanked other harness clubs and participants who have generously supported bushfire fundraising efforts.
“To those industry people who have promised driving fees, donations and other support, you embody the harness racing spirit in Victoria, which is to band together and look after mates during tough times,” he said.
“We’ve seen a wonderful commitment from the Ballarat and District Trotting Club, who have pledged 100 per cent of Ballarat Cup night gate takings to Wildlife Victoria, which is feeding and caring for the animals caught up in these fires. Thank you also to Tabcorp Park Melton for their fundraising efforts at the New Year’s Eve meeting. All up $5140 was raised through the outdoor bars for the Country Fire Authority."
Media enquiries to cwinnell@hrv.org.au or 03 8378 0288