Responsible Gambling Awareness Week

Tuesday, 15 May 2012: The Victorian Racing Industry has united in its support of the seventh annual Responsible Gambling Awareness Week.

Racing Victoria, Harness Racing Victoria and Greyhound Racing Victoria are again backing the State Government program which encourages responsible behaviour across all forms of gambling.

The VRI will assist in conveying key program messages including the need to set a wagering limit and stick to it, as well as ensuring that gambling remains a source of entertainment.

The three codes will feature advertisements in racebooks, on big screens at race meetings and on industry websites throughout this week.

The VRI-owned radio station RSN will host a one hour live RGAW forum from 7.30am tomorrow, having conducted a live outside broadcast last Friday at Geelong Racecourse to help promote RGAW.

RV Chief Executive Rob Hines, said the thoroughbred racing industry was pleased to continue its association with RGAW.

“Having a bet on the races and enjoying a great day trackside is part of Australian culture,” Hines said.

“Whilst we encourage people to continue to partake in this wonderful tradition we ask that they do so in a controlled manner to ensure their enjoyment.

“Together with the harness and greyhound racing codes, Racing Victoria is pleased to assist the State Government in promoting the message to gamble responsibly and ensure that people wager on racing within their means.”

GRV Chief Executive, John Stephens, offered his organisation's support for RGAW.

“While betting on greyhound racing is a great form of entertainment, it is important that people do so in moderation,” Stephens said.

“Gambling can very easily take over people's lives, especially with the increased ease of access to betting.

However it is critical that people take a balanced approach to what should be a fun and enjoyable pastime.”

HRV Chief Executive, John Anderson, said, “While the harness racing industry in Victoria is primarily funded from wagering, it is important to the organisation that punters invest within their means and enjoy the experience.

“Harness racing is a great family sport which should be enjoyed by the community at large, therefore HRV is a willing supporter of the State Government's responsible gambling message.”