Canberra Community Chest returns to shine a spotlight on local heroes
The Canberra Racing Club is proud 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 equine welfare.
Reigning champions, Win The Day collected $25,000 in 2024 and have welcomed the race’s return, with their founder Kristy Giteau, expressing her excitement at the opportunity to once again be part of this unique and impactful event.
“We love the Canberra Community Chest, ever since the first year it was introduced.” Giteau Said.
“Our oncology community and volunteers love coming out and supporting not only our charity but the 11 other fantastic local charities filling gaps in services for our community and doing an incredible job.”
“I love the concept and the awareness it brings us (the charities) as well as making it a fun event for everyone to enjoy.”
“The money won in 2023 and 2024 allowed us to support 17 families with ongoing treatment supports so they could prioritise their unwell child and not stress over the small things such as food, accommodation and travel.”
“The support provided really makes the world of difference to our local oncology families and so winning the Canberra Community Chest allowed us to ensure this continues.”
Giteau, excited to apply this again in 2025 said “Try and stop us! It is one of first things we mark into our calendar as a spectator let alone a charity.”
“We love the festival vibes, the comradery and sense of togetherness a community event like this brings to Canberra. Last year we won and with that win we were able to support 17 families while they are doing it tough in ward, so we love everything about the event.”
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, 10 September.
Media Contact: Robbie Ringland, Head of Commercial & Communications, Canberra Racing Club M: 0439 832 972