The Minns Labor Government has welcomed the success of the Everest Racing Carnival which is set to scale new heights this Spring to deliver a major boost to the State's economy and employment.
The pinnacle race day of the eight-week carnival, which features two of Australia's most prestigious races, was sold out nearly two weeks out from gates going up at Royal Randwick Racecourse on 18 October.
The main race is The Everest, Australia's richest race on turf with prizemoney of $20 million. More than a race, The Everest is a heightened celebration of NSW's racing industry and a major contributor to the economy. The race supports more than 2,000 jobs across hospitality and racing operations, as well as attracting international attention and investment.
Also on the day's billing is The Kosciuszko, a $2 million gallop exclusively for country-trained horses, ensuring that regional NSW shares in the success and highlights the talent and dedication of rural trainers and owners.
It comes off the back of the NSW Government's $67 million Racing for the Regions program which is helping strengthen regional racing to support jobs and business activity in local communities across the state.
Nine regional communities are benefitting from this initiative which is modernising racing and training infrastructure and facilities to generate jobs and tourism demand at regional venues and their surrounding towns.
The Everest attracts a young, vibrant crowd with world class entertainment held after the event, underscoring Sydney's reputation as Australia's premier destination for major events, setting the benchmark for global sporting and cultural spectacles.
Business Sydney estimates that race day alone will generate at least $30 million in economic activity in the Harbour City.
The NSW Government continues to work with Racing NSW to ensure the Everest Carnival's success translates into long-term benefits for the state's economy, racing industry and regional development.
For more information, visit NSW Office of Racing: www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/office-of-racing
Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:
"The eight-week Everest Carnival is a showcase of NSW's racing excellence and a powerful economic engine, reinforcing Sydney's status as a global racing destination.
"Many continue their Everest celebrations at the world class hospitality venues located nearby, confirming just how beneficial the Everest race, and everything that comes with it, is to Sydney and our great State.
"The Kosciuszko, now in its eighth year, is the richest race in the world exclusively for country-trained horses. It has had a massive impact on country racing, economically and socially. It's helped regional economies, lifted the profile of country trainers and owners, and inspired a new wave of racing fans across NSW."
If anyone is concerned about their gambling or the gambling of someone they know, the NSW Government's GambleAware provides free and confidential advice and support 24/7. For information go to gambleaware.nsw.gov.au or call 1800 858 858.
