Melbourne Cup Champions to Benefit from Investment
The Victorian Government plans to inject $1 million in unpaid race winnings back to the home of retired champion racehorses, through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund.
Located at Woodlands Historic Park outside Melbourne, the Living Legends charitable organisation was established to bring retired champion horses reward, and provide local and international champions a home after their racing careers are over.
Living Legends attracts 40,000 visitors each year, and is the home of Melbourne Cup greats including Rogan Josh, Might and Power, Brew, and Doriemus.
Minister for Racing, Denis Napthine, said the investment would encourage greater interest in Victorian racing and promote alternative opportunities for retired champions.
Proposed plans for the new funding include fencing, more shelters, and farm equipment to improve the pasture management and paddock rotations. Other proposed enhancements include further regeneration of the Historic Gardens and the implementation of educational programs for schoolchildren.
Living Legends at Greenvale has an alliance with Eliza Park Stud to assist in operating expenses, and incorporates Woodlands Historic Park, which features a number of tourist activities including picnic facilities, walking trails, indigenous history and the 1840s Woodlands homestead.