Council
22 November, 2024
Calls for jumps racing support
IN the midst of a review into jumps racing, Member for South West Coast Roma Britnell has called on the Minister for Racing to give “confidence” to the industry.
“While this review is taking place, it would be timely for the Minister for Racing to give confidence to the industry that they have a future,” Ms Britnell said.
“There is currently a 2024 Jumps Racing Review being conducted by Racing Victoria across a whole-of-business approach over a broad range of metrics.
“This includes participation rates, industry support, community attitudes, financial returns, the safety record of the sport and the measures in place to promote safe racing.”
According to Ms Britnell, Racing Victoria has said that no outcome was off the table and that the report and recommendations would consider the future viability of jumps racing in Victoria.
The report is due to be provided to the Racing Victoria board for a decision by the end of December this year.
“There’s too much at stake for the jumps industry and associated economy of the South West Coast to toy with the future of jumps racing,” Ms Britnell said.
“Jumps racing forms an integral part of the Warrnambool Racing program, with a history dating back to 1850.
“In May this year 30,000 people attended the races over the three days. These visitors come to Warrnambool, which has a population of 35,000, which demonstrates their support for jumps racing.”
Ms Britnell added that the ongoing benefits of jumps racing was enormous, with over $12.8 million being spent in the local economy, supporting local businesses and families each year.
“This investment is spent on associated industries such as accommodation, food and beverages, clothing, entertainment and fuel,” she said.
“Losing jumps racing from the Warrnambool May Racing Carnival would be equivalent to Victoria losing the Melbourne Cup.”
