Canberra Community Chest
The Canberra Racing Club is thrilled to announce the return of the Canberra Community Chest—an inspiring race day spectacle that sees 12 local charities and community groups unite with 12 equine heroes to compete for their share in a $50,000 community chest.
Set to take place on Sunday, 23 November 2025, the Canberra Community Chest is supported by Affinity Electrical Technologies and is a Quality Open Handicap over 1400m.
Applications for charities and community organisations are now open for those that hold a significant connection to the Canberra region or are equine welfare centric.
A well-respected, independent selection panel consisting of Hands Across Canberra’s Genevieve Jacobs, MV Law’s Archie Tsirimokos & Clubs ACT’s Kate Palmer will select 11 charity and community partners to take part in this year’s Canberra Community Chest from the group of worthy applicants.
The final spot will be determined by a People’s Choice vote, giving the community the power to select the last beneficiary.
In the lead-up to race day, all selected partners will be invited to a prestigious Black-Tie event, where each organisation will draw the name of the equine hero that will race in their honour.
The community focused Affinity Electrical Technologies returns as the major partner of this special event, holding naming rights to the feature race, the Single Gaze. A long-time supporter of both Canberra racing and the local community, Affinity Electrical Technologies has proudly partnered with the Canberra Racing Club for over a decade.
Charities, community groups, and sporting clubs are encouraged to apply to be part of this unique initiative via thoroughbredpark.com.au.
Applications close at 12pm on Wednesday, 3 September.
| Date | Item |
| Tuesday, 1 July | Applications for Canberra Community Chest opens |
| Wednesday, 3 September | Applications for Canberra Community Chest close |
| By 17 September | 11 Charity Partners are announced & public vote for remaining eligible applicants opens |
| Friday, 7 November | Public vote for remaining eligible applicants closes |
| Thursday, 20 November | Canberra Community Chest Black Tie – partners randomly select their horse |
| Sunday, 23 November | Canberra Community Chest Race Day |
Last year's partners were:
- Bosom Buddies ACT Inc
- Canberra Blind Society Inc.
- Cystic Fibrosis ACT Association
- Equine Pathways Australia Limited
- Daniela Dwyer Foundation
- Horse Aid Ltd
- Lions Youth Haven
- Pegasus Riding for the Disabled ACT
- Project Independence Ltd
- Respite Care for Queanbeyan Incorporated
- Rise Above - Capital Region Cancer Relief
- Win the Day Charity