VRC raises record $123,540 for the Good Friday Appeal

This year’s total brings the VRC’s cumulative contribution since the partnership began in 2023 to more than $300,000, reinforcing the club’s commitment to supporting its Flemington neighbour, The Royal Children’s Hospital.

The impressive fundraising result was achieved through a series of initiatives held across the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival and the 2026 Flemington Autumn Carnival.

VRC Chairman Neil Wilson will present the cheque as part of the Channel 7 Good Friday Appeal broadcast tomorrow.

As part of this year’s Appeal activities, Melbourne Cup-winning Living Legend Twilight Payment will visit The Royal Children’s Hospital tomorrow from 12–3pm, accompanied by the 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup trophy, giving patients and families the opportunity to enjoy photos and meet one of racing’s most beloved champions.

For 95 years, the Good Friday Appeal has united Victorians to support The Royal Children’s Hospital, funding world-class care, critical research, advanced equipment and family-focused services.

In addition to supporting the hospital, the Appeal contributes $3 million annually to regional health services, improving care for children and families across the state.

The VRC’s partnership with the Good Friday Appeal was showcased across several major race days and events. On Crown Oaks Day, jockeys, including Lexus Melbourne Cup winner Jamie Melham, led a special Guard of Honour in the Flemington Mounting Yard alongside patients from The Royal Children’s Hospital.

The Crown Resorts Foundation further boosted fundraising efforts by donating $500 for every jockey who participated, and attendees at the Crown Oaks Club Lunch contributed generously through a charity raffle.

Fundraising continued throughout the Flemington Autumn Carnival, with raffles held across all three race days and at the Flemington Long Lunch.

A special visit to The Royal Children’s Hospital also took place in conjunction with Racing Victoria, featuring Living Legend Apache Cat and Apache Kitten, accompanied by jockeys Harry Coffey, Jaylah Kennedy and Rose Hammond, bringing joy to patients and families.

The visit held particular significance for Harry, who lives with cystic fibrosis and relied on the care of the hospital throughout his youth. In a fitting full‑circle moment, Harry went on to claim the Group 1 TAB Australian Cup on the final day of the Flemington Autumn Carnival.

VRC Chief Executive Officer Kylie Rogers said the club was proud of the generosity shown by racegoers and the broader community.

“The VRC is incredibly proud to have set a new fundraising record for the Good Friday Appeal this season. This achievement reflects the generosity of our members, racegoers and partners, as well as the broader racing industry who consistently unite behind this important cause.

“We never know when we or someone we love may need the support of the Royal Children’s Hospital, but we take comfort in knowing it is there for families in their most challenging moments.”