Perfect way punters can show support for Buchan
Buchan is famous for its labyrinth of mystical caves, but locals hope a 132-year tradition can attract thousands of tourists to it’s special little town as it recovers from the horror bushfires.
VIC News
Don't miss out on the headlines from VIC News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
It’s most famous for its labyrinth of mystical caves, but it’s horseracing that is on track to lead Buchan’s bushfire recovery.
Locals hope the 133rd running of the Buchan Cup on February 15 will attract thousands of visitors to the rural region to enjoy a day of family fun.
“It’s a classic picnic races type of day with something for everyone,” race club president Peter Sandy told the Herald Sun. “Face painting and jumping castles and lolly scrambles for the kids ... much more than just the horses and having a bet.”
Families should take the opportunity to stay in the region over the cup weekend, and explore more of what beautiful Buchan has to offer, he said.
“It’s a good chance for people to show their support for the area ... to come down and maybe stay in some local accommodation ... to have dinner at the local pub and maybe breakfast at a cafe the next day,” Mr Sandy said.
Admission to the historic race meet is $15 for adults and punters are advised to bring plenty of cash, as there are no EFTPOS or ATM facilities at the racecourse.
“We are thrilled that Buchan Cup Day is able to go ahead as planned,” Country Racing Victoria chief Scott Whiteman said.
“This is a racing club which has raced for 132 years, and we are delighted that their annual meeting hasn’t been waylaid by the bushfires.
“We are very grateful for all of the help that the racing fraternity has offered Buchan over the past few weeks.
“We now ask that as many people as possible turn up at the races on February 15 to show their support at this fantastic community race day.”
MORE NEWS:
INCREDIBLE BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCE AT LAKES ENTRANCE
ENJOY THE BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF THE SNOWY RIVER
While closed at the time of writing, spectacular Buchan Caves is expected to reopen soon. A labyrinth of limestone formations carved by an underground river almost 400 million years ago, it is Victoria’s biggest cave system.
Known for its magnificent stalactite and stalagmite forms, pillars, shawls and rim pools, the caves also feature a flowing stream.
There are plenty of picturesque picnic and camping spots, and an abundance of native wildlife.