Race raises $10,000 for Kids Plus Foundation

THE Kids Plus Foundation has thanked the community for helping raise $10,000 towards its efforts at this year’s Bellarine Cup.

Held on January 3 at the Geelong Racing Club, the event saw hundreds of race-lovers and families take part in celebrating the first races of 2019.

Free activities for families took place on the grassy area as race-lovers lined the fences watching the horses whiz past in the eight races of the day.

While the races were under way, nearly 200 guests enjoyed a three-course meal served in the Silks Room while raising funds for Kids Plus Foundation.

K Rock radio presenter Lee “Stampsy” Stamps emceed the luncheon with entertainment provided by local band, Never Say Never.

This year’s fundraising total was an increase on last year’s $7,750, with the event raising more than $20,000 for Kids Plus Foundation over the three years.

“Support from the Bellarine Cup Race Day allows us to do things we wouldn’t otherwise be able to do,” Kids Plus Foundation chief executive officer Shaun Cannon said.

“Proceeds this year will be used to provide additional supports in the area of augmentative and alternative communication, or AAC as it is more commonly referred to.

“It will be great to purchase additional AAC devices to trial with our families.”

Kids Plus provides specialist physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology services for children with cerebral palsy and similar neurodevelopmental disabilities.

The event was made possible thanks to the Batman Management Group, Geelong Racing Club and race sponsors Bellarine Times, Piano Bar, Portarlington Grand Hotel and Portarlington Beach Motel.

“The Bellarine Cup is proving to be more popular every year for both people holidaying in the area and for the local residents,” Batman Management Group chief executive officer Bill Votsaris said.

“It is a family race day with lots of activities for young families and we look forward to an even bigger and better event next year.”