Shepparton greyhounds benefit from Andrews Labor govt support
The Andrews Labor Government is upgrading the Kialla Raceway and helping Shepparton host three greyhound race meetings this winter.
As part of a $168,000 joint funding package, the Labor Government is providing more than $13,000 from its Victorian Racing Industry Fund towards the three race meetings, along with almost $70,000 towards four infrastructure upgrades.
Upgrades will see two cooling units installed in the deck area overlooking the home straight at Kialla Raceway, along with a new 32-inch television screen ensuring patrons never miss the on-course action. The deck will be upgraded in time for the 2018 Shepparton Cup.
CCTV was installed in the catching pen and kennel block in February 2018 as part of a joint effort with Greyhound Racing Victoria to improve integrity and animal welfare. Shepparton is also one of 11 clubs to have a new public address system installed in June 2018 to replace outdated equipment.
The 2018 Shepparton Cup is providing an evening of quality greyhound racing on Saturday 18 August 2018. Along with live music, racegoers can meet retired greyhounds and volunteers from the Greyhound Adoption Program.
On Saturday 6 October, the club is supporting the local police community at its 2018 Blue Ribbon Day. The evening race meeting will offer raffles, and an AFL zone, including jumping castles and handball competitions.
The 2018 Northern Districts Cup is providing a day of fun for the whole family on Saturday 3 November, with live music and inflatable activities for children.
Shepparton Greyhound Racing Club is contributing more than $19,000 towards the race meetings and facilities upgrades, while Greyhound Racing Victoria is providing more than $66,000 towards the infrastructure projects.
Since 2014, the Labor Government has provided almost $150,000 to support five infrastructure projects and 11 race day events for the club.
The racing industry in the Goulburn region generates more than $227 million for the Victorian economy annually and helps to sustain more than 2240 full-time equivalent jobs locally.
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula announced the upgrades and financial support saying “We're upgrading racetracks across Victoria and this investment is about ensuring that Shepparton remains a state-of-the-art racing facility.”
“We're investing in racing events which help bring the community together and provide thousands of local jobs.”
Shepparton Greyhound Racing Club Manager Carl McGrath said he and his club appreciated the show of support from the Victorian government; “We're grateful for continued support from the Victorian Government and Greyhound Racing Victoria towards our race meetings and these important infrastructure upgrades at the Kialla Raceway.”
“We encourage the Goulburn Valley community to come down and enjoy a great night of racing at the 2018 Shepparton Cup.”