WA country racing cups receive funding boost

Western Australia's three major country thoroughbred cup carnivals will get a massive profile boost thanks to funding from the State Government.

  • Kalgoorlie, Bunbury and Broome country racing carnivals elevated

  • Funding for non-racing activities and to expand marketing and events

  • Supported by Eventscorp's Regional Events Program

Western Australia's three major country thoroughbred cup carnivals will get a massive profile boost thanks to funding from the State Government.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames said the funding would provide the Kalgoorlie Round and Broome and Bunbury racing carnivals with significant extra State-wide and national marketing and improve peripheral activities, such as on-course entertainment.

"The aim is to enhance these three events and increase their appeal and ability to attract visitors from outside the region as well as spectators from the local communities," Dr Hames said.

"Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) recommended these major carnivals because each has a unique point-of-difference.

"All WA country race clubs will also benefit from the development of a new country racing brand, a new website to promote all thoroughbred country racing fixtures and the appointment of a dedicated project manager at RWWA."

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the initiative was supported by Eventscorp's Regional Events Program, which is funded by Royalties for Regions and part of the State Government's significant $40million commitment to regional events.

"These three country cup carnivals are well established in the fabric of regional WA, and it's wonderful that Royalties for Regions funding support will help them grow and continue to excite their communities," Mr Grylls said.

The support is for three years, beginning with the Kalgoorlie Cup in September and the Broome and Bunbury Cup carnivals from 2013.

      Fact File

Tourism Minister's office - 6552 5300

Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 5500