KYNETON Racecourse will host the Hanging Rock Cup on Australia Day because of damage to the Hanging Rock racecourse.
The Victorian Government has chipped in $12,000 towards next week's race meeting.
Racing Minister Denis Napthine said: "The Hanging Rock Cup on Australia Day is one of the most celebrated events on the country racing calendar.
"It is hugely popular, attracting large crowds from the city and all around country Victoria.
"This year, not only will admission be by way of a gold coin donation in support of the Jane McGrath Cancer Foundation and the National Jockeys Trust, but all racegoers wearing green or gold will receive a free race book," Dr Napthine said.
Kyneton and Hanging Rock Racing Club manager Mark Graham said the race had been moved owing to track damage. He said the government money would go towards providing entertainment on the day.
Splash out at pool party
BENDIGO is hosting a free pool party on Australia Day.
Greater Bendigo yesterday announced it was opening the Bendigo Aquatic Centre for a chill-out session between 2pm and 5pm.
During the afternoon, Triple J Hottest 100 will provide the music and games and activities and prizes have been organised.
The pool party is free and is a drug-, alcohol- and smoke- free event.
It is being presented by Bendigo's FReeZA committee Mic Up Productions and the council.
Tour to create state of the arts
SOME of Australia's leading arts companies are to tour regional Victoria after the State Government chipped in $600,500 towards the tours.
Premier Ted Baillieu said the latest grants were in addition to 15 touring projects that have already received cash.
"This further investment in the arts for regional Victoria supports our commitment to giving regional Victorian communities equal access to the best arts and cultural experiences on offer," Mr Baillieu said.
Tours supported include a full-scale circus production by Circus Oz that will travel to Warragul, Mildura, Frankston and Dandenong, and Opera Australia's production of Mozart's opera Don Giovanni, which will visit Bendigo, Shepparton, Warragul, Warrnambool, Sale and Marysville.
Paths back on track for walkers
WALKING tracks in the Mount Richmond National Park have re-opened after areas of the park were burned by fire last year.
Ranger in charge Don Tumney said the rehabilitation of the park had gone smoothly and the Alec's Walk - part of West Walk, Benwerrin Nature Walk and Ocean View walk - were safe and open to the public.
"The Great South West Walk had been re-routed around the burnt area and we are gradually re-opening the main walk," he said.
"Part of West Walk and the Great South West Walk will remain closed due to wet and slippery footing, possibly until February, when conditions have dried."
The Ocean View Lookout, which was destroyed in the fire, will be rebuilt this year.
