The state government is throwing more money at the Melbourne Cup Carnival this year.
The state is investing $1,790,000 from the Major Racing Events Fund towards the carnival’s entertainment and infrastructure, alongside the Victoria Racing Club’s multi-million-dollar investment to enhance The Elms and The Park precincts.
The Elms Stage will host a series of high profile entertainment acts.
The Park will also feature family-friendly entertainment, activities and the chance to meet retired racing champions.
The Melbourne Cup Carnival is one of Victoria’s largest major events generating more than $500 million in gross economic benefit last year, creating jobs for thousands of Victorians and attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the track.
Since its launch in 2023, the Major Racing Events Fund has provided $9.2 million towards 29 projects worth almost $21 million.
Racing minister Anthony Carbines said he reckons Victoria is the place to be for horse racing.
“Nobody does spring racing like Victoria and this year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival will once again showcase our city at its very best,” he said.
“We’re proud to back Victoria’s $4.7 billion racing industry – supporting thousands of jobs and keeping Melbourne buzzing as the Melbourne Cup Carnival draws visitors from across Australia and the world.”
Victoria Racing Club chairman Neil Wilson shared in the excitement.
“We’re grateful to the Victorian Government for its generous contribution to the Melbourne Cup Carnival, one of Victoria’s most important major events,” he said.
“Crowds from Victoria, interstate and around the world travel to see the very best we have to offer in world-class racing, experiences and entertainment, and we look forward to presenting this year’s edition of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.”
