Kintyre triumphs as Community Chest unlocks $50,000 for Canberra charities

Tears of joy flowed when Kintyre kicked clear to win the 2025 Canberra Community Chest, delivering $25,000 to winning charity Water Wombats – Aquatic Disability Services. 

12 inspiring charities came together at Thoroughbred Park on Sunday, 23 November, to race for their share of the $50,000 chest. 

The initiative, now a highlight on the Canberra racing calendar, unites charities with an equine hero partner, guaranteeing every organisation a financial contribution, regardless of the finishing order. 

This year’s beneficiary pool included major health, disability, and community service organisations making significant impacts across the ACT and surrounding regions. 

Race Results and Charity allocations:

It was the Gary Portelli-trained Kintyre who finished on top, securing the Water Wombats a vital $25,000 boost for their important programs that support children’s development through aquatic therapy. 

There were incredible scenes on course post-race with Water Wombats representatives embracing in celebration. 

Water Wombats Founder Carol Jennings said, “My first reaction was a mix of disbelief, gratitude, and overwhelming joy."

“Kintyre ran the race with genuine heart and seeing him cross the line knowing he was racing for our children and families was incredibly moving.”

“A day on, the excitement has settled into a deep sense of pride and gratitude. The team is energised, emotional, and motivated.” 

“We’ve had families and supporters reaching out, everyone is feeling the significance of what this means for our children.”

The $25,000 is a significant contribution for the small but impactful Water Wombats, with the winnings to help provide inclusive, trauma-informed, and neurodiversity-affirming programs that support children’s development in and out of the water. 

“It’s more than a prize, it’s momentum for real change, this funding will be transformative.” Jennings said. 

“It will allow us to expand access to therapeutic aquatic services for children who cannot safely attend mainstream swim schools or require specialised support to access hydrotherapy, particularly deaf and hard-of-hearing children, neurodivergent children, children with physical limitations, and children with medically complex needs.” 

“This money will support sponsored sessions for vulnerable families, enhance our inclusive communication practices such as AUSLAN and visual supports, and allow us to invest in specialised equipment and staff training.” 

“Most importantly, it will help us ensure that every child, regardless of disability, diagnosis, or communication style, can learn essential water-safety skills and experience the therapeutic benefits of the water.” 

“This funding will allow Water Wombats to continue delivering holistic, family-centred, and traumainformed support—breaking down systemic barriers that prevent many children from accessing safe and inclusive therapeutic aquatic environments.” 

The Canberra Community Chest has now distributed over $150,000 since its inception, with funds supporting critical services across health, family support, disability, and crisis care sectors. 

The Canberra Racing Club extends its thanks to participating owners, trainers, racegoers, staff and community partners who continue to make the initiative a success. 

Media Contact: Robbie Ringland, Head of Commercial & Communications, Canberra Racing Club M: 0439 832 972

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