NEARLY $100 million in economic activity and more than 750 full-time equivalent jobs have been pumped into Mitchell Shire thanks to the local horse racing scene according to a recent study conducted by major events performance reviewers IER.
Seymour Racing Club CEO Chris Martin said the figures highlighted the significant role racing plays in the local economy.
“Almost $100 million flowing through our local economy is an extraordinary contribution and something everyone involved in racing across Mitchell Shire should be incredibly proud of,” he said.
“Racing is part of the fabric of communities like Seymour but these figures show that what happens on the track is only one part of a much bigger story.
“Behind every race meeting are hundreds of local jobs, families earning an income, businesses getting work and visitors spending money in our towns.
“From trainers, strappers and stable staff to our pubs, cafes, accommodation providers, tradies, transport operators and suppliers, racing reaches right across our community.”
The data has revealed the Mitchell Shire’s thoroughbred and harness racing industry has generated $94.9 million in economic activity and sustaining 752 full-time equivalent jobs across the region.
The industry also generates $53.7 million in household income, with an estimated 1,043 racing industry roles occupied by people in Mitchell Shire.
There were 53 race meetings and 445 races with a total of 28,870 attendances during the reporting period according to the IER study across both harness and thoroughbred racing in Seymour and Kilmore.
Kilmore Racing Club CEO Ben Murphy said the figures demonstrated the strength of the racing industry across Mitchell Shire.
“Having both thoroughbred and harness racing operating across Mitchell Shire gives our region a significant racing footprint,” he said.
“We have a significant industry already established in the Mitchell Shire and there is a real opportunity to build on it.
“Continued investment in racing and equine infrastructure will help us attract more participants and visitors, support more local jobs and generate even greater benefits for the region.
“Everyone in our industry is proud of the contribution we make and excited about the opportunity to keep growing it.”
