The Mount Gambier Racing Club is preparing to give back to the community on a big day later this month that means so much more than racing.

The upcoming Bucik Tyrepower Race Day at the Allan Scott Glenburnie Racecourse on Sunday, September 11 will not only generate nationwide attention through the anticipated heat for the Jericho Cup, but a special event will take place inside the club.

A fundraiser luncheon will be held featuring a three-course meal, food and drinks package, guest speaker, a huge auction including gifts to suit everyone and a special light horse display.

All proceeds from the fundraiser will be donated to a special community cause with the club donating everything from the race day straight to the local Prostate and Breast Cancer support and awareness groups.

The 2022 edition of the event is hoped to be bigger and better than ever after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 and track renovations.

Event organiser John Fartch said he hoped the event’s return will resume its reputation of giving back to the community and become a big event on the social calendar.

“We are hoping to turn it into another major event in our racing calendar,” he said.

“We have had it three times before COVID-19 and missed it for a couple of years due to track renovations.

“The idea with the luncheon was for the Mount Gambier Racing Club to give something back to the community, so all the proceeds from the day go to these people because it is as much about awareness if anything.

“Over the four years so far we have donated over $150,000 to the prostate and breast cancer groups.

“The breast cancer group donates packs to diagnosed people and the prostate group have spent a fair bit out at our hospital and anything left over goes to the leading research centre in Australia.”

For racegoers, Fartch said the on-track action would also be something to behold, with the Jericho Cup heat attracting nationwide interest, while a light horse display will take place for the first time.

“The Jericho Cup is now officially the last race of the spring carnival in Melbourne and they have heats Australia wide,” he said.

“So that will create a lot of interest and the other thing that is happening is the light horse display.

“They will do an active display at full gallop with sabers drawn and also do a static display where they will be in full 1918 uniforms and original old gear.

“That will be in the marque area where people can pat the horses and ask questions.”

A big auction will also take place with numerous items from a “revheads dream” of a hot lap around The Bend Motorsport Park and tyres voucher or a bottle of Coonawarra Vignerons wine, while Mike Broughton will be the guest speaker and will take guests on a journey through Africa.

After numbers steadily increased to around 160 before COVID-19, Fartch would be “ecstatic” of attracting around 200 people.

Tickets for the special event are priced at $120 per head and those interested are encouraged to book by phoning 8725 4466.

The big day will start at 12pm and wrap up at 4pm on Sunday, September 11.