By Mitchell Clarke
Emergency services personnel who spent their festive season fighting fires will be given an opportunity to celebrate with their loved ones at the Pakenham Racing Club.
The ‘Thank Your Emergency Services’ race night, an initiative by Gembrook MP Brad Battin, will encourage all paid and volunteer emergency service personnel to attend the festival of fun on Thursday 2 April.
“Thanks to the major local sponsor Parklea Developments, first responders and their families will be able to enjoy a free night at the Pakenham races, with a free barbecue, kids entertainment and live music,” Mr Battin said.
“With many of our emergency services having to give up their summers and spend time away from their family over the festive season, this event will hopefully give them a night with their families to remember.”
Pakenham Racing Club’s commercial and racing general manager Wade Calderwood said it was a no-brainer to get involved in the event.
“When approached late last year by Brad regarding his idea to hold a community event which focused on giving back to the families of volunteers and emergency services workers, the Pakenham Racing Club were very keen to play our part,” Mr Calderwood said.
“Originally the focus was around recognising those involved in fighting the 2019 Bunyip fires, but as the devastation unfolded in East Gippsland, the concept grew into a major event.
“The PRC look forward to seeing a bumper crowd on the night and are proud to show our support for those workers and their families who were amazing during the Bunyip and recent Gippsland bushfires.”
The night is set to showcase community spirit at its best, with the Rotary Clubs of Pakenham and Berwick providing volunteers for the evening.
Locally grown talent ‘Josh Novak and the Caravan Kids’ are slated to headline the event, perform live to the masses.
SJD Homes and BuildOz are confirmed sponsors of the night, with some other race and food sponsorships still available for any businesses looking to get involved.
The event invitation has been extended to the general public, who are encouraged to get down and support the event.
Adult tickets are $15 and children under 18 are free with all ticket proceeds going back into the evening.
To purchase tickets, visit https://country.racing.com/pakenham.
