More than $200,000 raised at Seymour raceday for bushfire relief

A special raceday at Seymour has raised more than $200,000 to support communities hit by January’s bushfires, with proceeds directed to the CFA & Brigades Donations Fund and the Strathbogie Disaster Relief Fund. The fundraiser combined race sponsorships, charity auctions and pledges.

Beyond the dollars, the program included a ceremony hosted by broadcaster and journalist Clint Stanaway to acknowledge the bravery of Country Fire Authority members and other volunteers who risked their lives during the catastrophic fires. Members of the racing community affected by the emergency were also present, reflecting on the extraordinary efforts that helped evacuate hundreds of horses under extremely challenging conditions.

The meeting marked the start of Racing For Our Regions, a showcase of country racing supported by the Victorian Government through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund and created in conjunction with Country Racing Victoria.

With further events scheduled in March at Alexandra, Towong and Kyneton, the series is designed to thank firefighters, volunteers and others who served on the front line, while highlighting the crucial role race clubs play in their local communities, particularly in times of adversity.

RV Chief Executive Aaron Morrison said it was heartening to see strong attendance and more than $200,000 raised for Victoria’s ongoing bushfire relief efforts. He said the stories of bravery typify the spirit of regional communities and the racing industry, and urged those living near upcoming host venues to attend and show their support.

Country Racing Victoria Chief Executive Scott Whiteman said the series is a way of giving back to those who gave so much, noting that communities rallied together to confront the state’s catastrophic bushfires. He said organisers look forward to doing the same at Towong, Alexandra and Kyneton in the coming weeks.

Victoria’s Minister for Racing, Anthony Carbines, who attended the event, said the raceday brought the racing industry and local communities together in a significant show of generosity and support. He said the Allan Labor Government was proud to stand alongside them, and that raising vital funds while celebrating those who worked to protect lives, property and communities was very important.

The Racing For Our Regions series continues through March, with organisers encouraging local residents to turn out and recognise those who served while sustaining ongoing relief efforts.