South-West Coast electorate
Roma BRITNELL (South-West Coast) (14:54): (914) My constituency question is to the Minister for Racing, and I ask: is the minister prepared to back jumps racing and give confidence to the industry? Jumps racing forms an integral part of the Warrnambool racing program, with a history dating back to 1850. In May this year 30,000 people attended the races over three days. These visitors come to Warrnambool, which has a population of 35,000, which demonstrates the support for jumps racing. The ongoing benefits are enormous, with over $12.8 million being spent in the local economy, supporting local businesses and families each year. This investment is spent on associated industries such as accommodation, food and beverage, clothing, entertainment and fuel. The Premier loves to be seen sipping champagne and eating caviar at the Birdcage at the Melbourne Cup. Losing the Warrnambool May race carnival is equivalent to Victoria losing the Melbourne Cup.