The MRC Foundation will contribute more than $50,000 in direct financial and practical support to bushfire-affected communities across northeast Victoria, as regional racing families begin the long road to recovery following the recent Longwood fires.
Announced ahead of today’s Racing for our Regions fundraiser at Seymour Racing Club, the commitment reflects the Victorian racing industry’s united response to communities impacted by the devastating bushfires.
The MRC Foundation’s support includes:
- $25,000 to the Racing Victoria Bushfire Relief Fund
- $20,000 to the Seymour Bushfire Appeal, comprising:
- $10,000 to the Strathbogie Disaster Relief Fund
- $10,000 to the CFA & Brigades Donations Fund
- $5,000 to Tallarook Rural Supplies, recognising its direct support of multiple farms impacted by the fires
In addition, the Foundation will provide an in-kind donation of 300 metres of running rail to Leneva Park, a fire-affected Longwood racing property, along with $2,000 in delivery costs, enabling the business to resume its pre-training and breaking operations as soon as possible.
Regional racing supports thousands of jobs, small businesses and families across Victoria. For many in the northeast, the fires have disrupted not just homes, but livelihoods.
“The fires have had a significant impact on our operations, and support like this makes a real difference as we work to rebuild,” said Mick Sharkie, General Manager & Bloodstock Manager at Leneva Park.
“The donation of running rail means we can get horses back into work sooner and begin restoring our business with confidence.”
MRC CEO Tanya Fullarton said the impact of the fires had been deeply felt across regional racing.
“Our regional communities are the backbone of Victorian racing. When trainers, farms and families are hit, the impact ripples across the entire racing ecosystem,” Ms Fullarton said.
“Through the MRC Foundation, we are focused on practical support that helps people get back on their feet – from frontline emergency services to local businesses working to rebuild.”
“In regional Victoria, racing is more than sport – it is livelihood, community and connection. This commitment reflects our responsibility to stand with our industry partners and contribute meaningfully to recovery efforts.”
Racing for our Regions is being delivered by Racing Victoria, Country Racing Victoria and Seymour Racing Club today (Friday 20 February) to raise funds for communities affected by the bushfires across northeast Victoria.
