This year’s Bridgetown Cup proved to be a win both on and off the track, with the race day raising vital funds to upgrade outdoor play equipment and educational resources for Bridgetown Primary School.
The local community rallied behind the school fundraiser, organised by the local P&C Association, with parents and students collecting $3222 from operating the trackside canteen, offering face painting, collecting Containers for Change and hosting a festive Easter raffle.
Racing WA matched the funds raised on the day through its Race Club Community Program, bringing the total to an impressive $6444.
Bridgetown Harness Racing Club Secretary and Treasurer Dariel Hodgins said the program plays a valuable role in helping local groups make a difference in their community.
“We’re incredibly grateful for Racing WA’s continued support through the Race Club Community Program,” Dariel said.
“The extra funding eases the pressure on a small P&C group like ours and really motivates everyone involved to keep working together for the good of the community.”
With 44 of WA’s 47 race clubs based in remote and regional communities, Racing and Wagering Western Australia CEO Ian Edwards said the positive effects of the fundraising program have been extensive for community groups and not-for-profits.
“Race clubs play an important role in their communities – both economically and socially – with partnerships like this a prime example of the strong connection race clubs have with their communities,” Ian said.
“Bridgetown Harness Racing Club chose a very worthy cause for their fundraising and we are pleased to match their efforts.
“Racing WA is committed to making a positive contribution to our State. The Race Club Community Program allows clubs to guide our giving by proposing a local group or charity they believe deserves support and we match the funds raised on special race days.”
Since the program’s inception in 2015, race clubs and Racing WA have jointly raised more than $1 million for charitable organisations and community groups.