Win the Day win the People's vote and earn the 12th Canberra Community Chest slot
The people have spoken and Win the Day, a charity supporting families affected by rare childhood cancers, have been voted the 12th and final partner of the 2026 Canberra Community Chest.
Win the Day will join 11 other local charities and community groups at Thoroughbred Park on Sunday 22 November 2026, each paired with a horse and racing for a share of a $65,000 community chest. The prize pool was increased from $50,000 thanks to a generous contribution from Canberra Southern Cross Club, meaning every partner will receive a minimum of $2,500.
This will be a return to the Community Chest for Win the Day, whose horse Chorlton Lane won the race in 2024, securing $25,000 for the charity.
Win the Day Founder Kristy Giteau said the charity was thrilled to be back after winning the public vote to decide the 12th partner.
“We’re pumped! It’s one of our favourite days of the year, so we’re so thrilled to be involved again,” Giteau said.
“Our family loves horses and racing, so we’re just delighted to have been picked by the people to be the 12th partner in this year’s Canberra Community Chest.”
Giteau said the day was about more than the racing.
“It’s such a special day when you’re surrounded by the other wonderful charities who do so much good work. The day is a chance for our families to get together, relax and connect. I love seeing all of the kids dressed up for the special occasion.”
Win the Day raises awareness and funds research into rare childhood cancers and supports families through diagnosis and treatment. Its support includes accommodation grants, nutrition packs for oncology carers, welcome packs for families in hospital, one-off financial support for families whose child has relapsed, and rebuild grants that help families reconnect through shared experiences.
Giteau said the increased minimum contribution of $2,500 would make a real difference.
“Worst case, we can help support a family whose child has just relapsed with financial assistance that will help them take care of the little things.”
If Win the Day were to take out the top prize again, the impact would be even greater.
“If we were to win again, we would be able to support four families with the funding of celebrations of life,” Giteau said.
Win the Day joins ACT Volunteer Brigades, Equine Pathways Australia, Formally Formal Wear, Good Omen Goodeze, Helping ACT, Palliative Care ACT, Pam’s Pantry, Pegasus Riding for the Disabled ACT, Rise Above (Eden Monaro Cancer Support Group), Seeyourself (NeuroGen Tech Collective) and Toora Women Incorporated.
The 2026 Canberra Community Chest, supported by Affinity Electrical Technologies, will be held at Thoroughbred Park on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with free entry into the racecourse. Families can enjoy a jumping castle, face painting, pony rides, live music and a MXTology pop up bar, or book Premium GA for a trackside experience. Bookings are available at thoroughbredpark.com.au.
About Win the Day
Win the Day Charity raises awareness and funds research into rare childhood cancers, and supports families with accommodation, meals and emotional support during treatment. More information is available at wintheday.org.au.
About the Canberra Community Chest
The Canberra Community Chest is a Canberra Racing Club initiative that pairs local charities and community groups with equine partners, racing for a share of a $65,000 community prize pool at Thoroughbred Park.