Melbourne Cup Public Holiday

Published on 09 October 2017

MELBOURNE CUP PUBLIC HOLIDAY

Media Release 

Melbourne Cup Day, Tuesday 7 November, is a public holiday in the Gannawarra Shire.

Where previously the municipality had a split public holiday, following a Council decision in December 2016, the declaration of the public holiday on Melbourne Cup Day was moved by Council.

Mayor Brian Gibson said changes in State Government legislation over the years had resulted in local Councils having different options for declaring the public holiday.

“The most recent option Council had approved was the area formerly known as the Borough of Kerang having Kerang Show Day and the rest of the Shire has a public holiday on Melbourne Cup Day. This arrangement was in place between 2013 and 2016.”

Extensive public consultation was undertaken in 2015 to gauge the communities’ thoughts on the public holiday.

“The consultation told us that there was clear support for a public holiday for the whole Shire to be held on Melbourne Cup day, and that is what was approved by Councillors to be in place for 2017 – 2021,” Mayor Gibson says.

In making their decision, Council acknowledged that the Kerang Show would still be a key local event held in October and committed to continuing to work proactively with the Kerang Agricultural Society Show Committee to ensure its rich history dating back to 1883 is upheld and the viability of the show continues to meet the needs of future generations.

“Council has assisted the show committee this year with planning and funding new signage, and provided support for the school events being held on the Tuesday and will assist with promotion and marketing of the Show during the transition of the public holiday decision.”

“The Kerang Show Committee is a proactive and committed group of volunteers, and this year’s show is shaping up to be a wonderful event for the whole family,” Mayor Gibson said.

For more information please contact Council on 5450 9333 or visit council’s website

www.gannawarra.vic.gov.au

…ENDS…

Date: 6 October 2017

Media contact: Katrina Thorne T. 03 5450 9333 M. 0409 616 627