Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) in conjunction with the Victorian Harness Racing Media Association (VHRMA) held a well-attended social gathering at Tabcorp Park Melton on Saturday, August 20.
The inaugural Harness Victoria Media Appreciation Night was held in the Skybox at Tabcorp Park, Melton, honouring past and present members of the media.
This year, trots media legends Rob Gaylard, Bill Glover and Max Agnew were honoured with memorial race names on the night and their family and friends were in attendance.
The VHRMA’s Bob Cain Memorial Distinguished Service Award was posthumously presented during the evening to Damien Smart on behalf of his late father, Ken (Australian Trotting Record), who was a great journalist during the Showgrounds and Moonee Valley days.
A large gathering consisting of print media, radio and television personalities, past and present, along with various others were present to enjoy the evening.
HRV Chairman Dale Monteith expressed his gratitude for the media’s coverage of the sport and explained how vital these nights were.
VHRMA President Len Baker was thrilled with the attendance and conducted three panel interviews, which the audience enjoyed thoroughly.
The panels consisted of Alexandra Hurley and Luke Humphreys, Neale Donnelley and Richard Trembath, and Shannon O’Sullivan and Peter Wharton.
HRV General Manager Media and Communications, Cody Winnell, said the night would become an annual fixture.
“It was a wonderful evening to honour media past and present. Celebrating the industry's history and respecting those who have come before us are values shared by both the VHRMA under president Len Baker and HRV. I am sure this event will only continue to grow year on year,” he said.
The VHRMA continues to represent harness racing media in Victoria. If you wish to join the Association, please email len-baker@bigpond.com. Members are automatically invited to the Media Appreciation Night each year.