$40,000 Raised for the Drought Angels

Friday, 31 August 2018

Our sincere thanks to the many Brisbane Racing Club Members who have turned out in a great show of support for our drought-affected farmers.

The Drought Angels fundraiser – the brainchild of Eagle Farm trainer Desleigh Forster and Emma Smith – was held at the Champions Bar at Doomben last Sunday. It was a privilege for the Gallopers staff to host the event, and for the BRC to be a major sponsor. We are thankful to all involved.

More than $40,000 was raised across the afternoon for Drought Angels which supports Australian farmers and their communities.

We know the importance of the regions and the bush to Queensland’s great racing history. This weekend’s iconic Birdsville Cup showcases all that bush racing means to our communities. Last Sunday’s Drought Angels function was a great reminder of how generous and how supportive the Queensland racing industry can be when people hit hard times.

The idea belonged to Desleigh and Emma, who approached the BRC’s Scott Steele to host the event at Gallopers. Within days, the response was overwhelming and the event was shifted from Gallopers to the larger capacity of the Champions Bar. The first idea of a trivia afternoon quickly evolved into the great atmosphere that we witnessed on Sunday afternoon.

I’d like to thank the many BRC staff members and our outstanding suppliers who helped to raise funds for this great cause. Our suppliers provided food at no cost while the Champions Bar was provided free of charge. All proceeds from the day were provided to Drought Angels. This included from memorabilia auctions, raffles and the slave-for-a-day auction that was so well supported.

Thanks to Newgate Farm, Coolmore, Garrards Horse and Hound, UBET, Trackside Photography, Ranvet, Albion Park Harness Racing Club, the connections of Winx, National Jockeys’ Trust, helloworld Travel, Co. Studio Hairdressing, Trish Stanley Massage and La Diva Nails and Beauty for their very generous support for the auctions and raffles.

If you were unable to attend Sunday’s function but wish to donate to Drought Angels, please visit droughtangels.org.au