FEATURE
alignment of values with the VRC. A longstanding relationship with Living Legends is a treasured one, and the
racing industry is an integral part of the club’s approach to its corporate social responsibility. Relationships are important to the club, and we have engaged ambassadors who are dedicated to equine welfare in their respective areas. These include champion jockey and talented equestrian Jamie Kah, Olympian Amanda Ross and Paralympian Emma Booth. Each of these women has talent, dedication and an unwavering love of the horse, making them ideal to represent the VRC in the media, at racing events, member events and when competing at equestrian competitions. Our Community Partners in equine welfare are also chosen due to their
Legends visiting Flemington on race days is always a highlight. We have partnered with Racing Hearts, providers of equine- assisted therapy with retired racehorses for disadvantaged and at-risk youth, supporting a program for secondary school students interested in pursuing a career working in the thoroughbred industry. On Thursday 4 May, the VRC and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Pakenham launched the new horse-riding facility, the Subzero Arena, named in honour of one of racing’s greatest heroes. The arena was
Cup Tour National Sweep; $26,000 raised for the Victorian Jockeys Association via the saddlecloth auction; and $15,000 donated to the National Jockeys’ Trust following the jockeys’ appearances at the Lexus Melbourne Cup Cavalcade. The VRC partners with charities, sporting clubs, and other organisations to leave a positive impact on society and the environment. Building on the success of Cup Week, the club also had a significant focus on community engagement across the summer and autumn periods. Christmas Race Day saw the club supporting the UnBox Joy Christmas Appeal for Variety – The Children’s Charity as they aimed to provide toys to over 4,500 kids who would otherwise go without, while more than $14,000 was raised for charity partner Australian Childhood Foundation at the Love Letter to Racing event on Black Caviar Lightning Race Day. More than $50,000 was raised during the Flemington Racing Spectacular for the Childhood And Racehorse Movement (CARM) and the Good Friday Appeal. On Australian Guineas Day more than $9000 was raised for CARM while $41,000 was donated to the Good Friday Appeal as a result of fundraising initiatives on Super Saturday and TAB Australian Cup Day. Engagement with the community and not- for-profits associated with the thoroughbred These donations may seem simple but their impact on communities who have experienced a traumatic event can , t be underestimated.
A highly valued volunteer selling Pin & Win pins.
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INSIDE HEADQUARTERS ISSUE 2 2023
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