WA launches new Racing WA Community Fund to foster local racing support
Racing and Wagering West Australia (RWWA) has recently launched a new program with the aim of establishing a connection between all racing codes and local communities throughout West Australia.
According to RWWA, the new Racing WA Community Fund “is set to become the driving force for positive change in areas closely linked to racing.”
The community fund will provide financial support to projects that promote connection, enhance wellbeing, and advance environmental sustainability in areas associated with a local thoroughbred, harness, or greyhound race club.
There will be two annual grant rounds per year.
RWWA CEO Ian Edwards said the fund will further enhance the vital role racing plays in supporting communities throughout Western Australia.
“The fund is a reflection of our commitment to regional communities, where racing is more than just a sport – it's a way of life and a highlight in the social calendar.
“The State's 50 race clubs serve as vital hubs that bring a sense of belonging and purpose to many, providing jobs, volunteering opportunities and shared facilities for community groups.
“The fund further supports this positive social impact and will strengthen the existing connections between racing and local communities,” Edwards said.
In addition to annual funding by RWWA, the Racing WA Community Fund will be initially seeded from over $270,000 prizemoney that RWWA received through the Wester Trilogy slot race series, which includes The Sandgroper.
“RWWA was one of the slot holders in the inaugural Western Trilogy series, from which we received over $270,000 in prizemoney that we pledged to good causes.
“The $270,000 won in prizemoney gives the Racing WA Community Fund a real boost in its first year of operation,” Edwards said.
To be considered for a grant from the Racing WA Community Fund, your organisation or project must meet the following criteria:
- Location: Your organisation or project must be based within a town connected to a thoroughbred, harness or greyhound race club.
- Impact: It should be intended to have a positive and tangible effect on local communities in rural and regional areas.
- Community: There should be a clear, direct connection between your project and community development, sustainability or animal
wellbeing. - Alignment with pillars: Your project must align with at least one of Racing WA's Community Fund Pillars.