Victorians are being urged to attend a greyhound race meeting at Sale, Healesville or Sandown on Australia Day, January 26, to support those affected by bushfires.

Greyhound Racing Victoria Chair Peita Duncan said GRV, our 13 clubs and participants, were committed to support Victorians affected by bushfires both now and into the future.

“We have already seen our clubs and so many of our participants lend a helping hand,” Ms Duncan said.

“Our hearts go out to all those affected and I could not be prouder with the way our clubs and participants have rallied behind fire affected communities.

“And I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Australia Day than by continuing that support at our race meetings on the day.

“On Australia Day at Sale we will be raising funds for the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund in conjunction with the Victorian CFA.”

Ms Duncan said there would be raffles, sponsored race names, a gold coin donation Aussie BBQ, gold coin face painting, gold coin jumping castle and memorabilia auction.

“All our clubs have thrown their support behind the bushfire appeal and each are holding fundraisers at their tracks,” Ms Duncan said.

”I urge everyone to get along to their local track to support bushfire fundraising and have a great family day out while doing so.”

Ms Duncan said GRV would be announcing further fundraising and bushfire support initiatives in coming weeks.

Greyhound Racing Victoria is donating $250 to the bushfire appeal every time a greyhound wearing the red number one rug wins at any Victorian track during the month of January.

“So far, our Red Dog initiative has raised more than $20,000 and combined with money raised by our clubs and participants, I’m sure that our sport will raise more than $100,000,” Ms Duncan said.

Geelong and Bendigo greyhound racing clubs have also backed the Red Dog initiative and are donating $100 every time the red dog wins at their tracks in January.

The Meadows has donated $10,000 to the appeal, Warragul’s fundraiser at its recent Cup meeting raised more than $2000 and Healesville has raised $600 with fundraising continuing at each meeting.

Cranbourne Greyhound Racing Club has raised $5000 plus a further $50,000 donated in partnership with Cranbourne trots and thoroughbreds.

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RELATED: ‘GO THE RED DOG’ BUSHFIRE FUNDRAISER
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