By Lou Martin
Walking into the absolutely beautiful gardens of Government House in Melbourne today was a proud day for our industry as greyhound racing in Victoria was recognised for its generosity in assisting to raise funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH).
Invited to take part in a morning tea to commemorate 90 years of fundraising for the Royal Children’s Hospital, Chair Peita Duncan, and myself, were simply delighted to represent the larger greyhound family in what has been a real team effort.
Having raised more than $100,000 for the RCH over the past five years, Ms Duncan reflected on the way in which the greyhound industry always opens its hearts, either internally within the collective family, or when coming to the aid of those in need.
“The monies we have raised for the Children’s Hospital has been amazing, with the past two years on Neil’s Wheel (3AW radio program fundraiser) seeing a contribution of around $50,000. Before this we also donated $20,000 a year directly to the hospital for as many years as I can remember,” she said.
Ms Duncan added that GRV also provides support to Ronald McDonald House – an arm of RCH – through the Sports Entertainment Network program Chase for Charity on a Saturday morning, raising more than $23,000 in 2020 alone.
“Our Chase for Charity program on the Off The Bench radio show brings together everything I love about my role. I get to update everyone about what is happening within our sport, while the presenters ‘Hutchy’ and ‘Pickers’ try to pick winners at our tracks each weekend, with all proceeds going to three designated charities – one of which is always Ronald McDonald House,” she said.
Ms Duncan said she was honoured to be part of a select group invited to Government House today, which included other racing codes and groups such as The Uncle Bob’s Club.
“To be part of supporting such an important cause, particularly through this pandemic, is humbling. I thank everyone who has been part of this fundraising effort over the years,” she said.
Note: Today’s event was held outdoors under Covid-19 restrictions.
TOP OF PAGE: GRV Chair, Peita Duncan (left) and GRV GM Strategic Communication & Marketing, Louise Martin in the gardens of Government House today.
WATCH: Greyhound Adoption Program Ambassador Todd McKenney and GRV Chair Peita Duncan raising funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital last April on 3AW’s Neil’s Wheel.
