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The Collie Cup struck gold for the local hockey club this weekend, raising more than $10,000 for their upcoming Darwin trip.
Volunteers from the Collie Hockey Association Inc volunteered at the October 26 race meet, raising more than $5000 through assisting at the gates, in hospitality areas, corporate tents and by selling race books and collecting Containers for Change.
It was all in an effort to help the hockey club send their two under 16's sides on a trip to Darwin.
Racing WA matched the funds raised with $5000 through its Race Club Community Program, which significantly boosted the travel budget.
Collie Race Club Treasurer Rosanne Pimm said the program is a win-win for both the race club and the local community.
"Its great to support our community through fundraising on Cup Day, and it's also great for us to get their help on race day," Rosanne said.
"It's a fantastic initiative that rewards volunteers for their hard work to keep their clubs alive."
With 44 of WA's 47 race clubs based in remote and regional communities, Racing and Wagering Western Australia CEO Ian Edwards said the positive effects of the fundraising program have been extensive for community groups and not-for-profits.
"Race clubs play an important role in their communities – both economically and socially – with partnerships like this a prime example of the strong connection race clubs have with their communities," Ian said.
"Collie Race Club chose a worthy cause for their fundraising, and we are pleased to add to their efforts.
"Racing WA is committed to making a positive contribution to our State. The Race Club Community Program allows clubs to guide our giving by proposing a local group or charity they believe deserves support and we match the funds raised on special race days."
Since the program's inception in 2015, race clubs and Racing WA have jointly raised more than $1 million for charitable organisations.