Investing in the Future

Since formally establishing in Australia in 2015, community engagement and involvement has been at the forefront of Spendthrift Australia. While major farm developments have had a direct impact on local businesses, their actions have also reached Victorian racing clubs and programs supporting animal welfare.

OOver the last five years, the extensive improvements to the usability of the farm have included fencing and building completed by local contractors.

“We are developing a state-of-the-art stallion operation and we are glad to be supporting local businesses who are helping us achieve our goals,” said Garry Cuddy, General Manager of Spendthrift Australia.

VICTORIAN COMMUNITY

“We have been working with Spendthrift since the beginning, installing kilometre after kilometre of fencing. This has obviously been great for our own business but also keeping the demand up for our local suppliers,” commented Brook Grumont of Grumont Rural Fencing.

In 2019, building commenced to construct a new office, stallion barn, broodmare arrivals area and stallion parade ring. This extensive project is on track to be completed by 2021. “I’ve been lucky enough to work with Spendthrift on the construction of their new office and stallion barn – a unique opportunity to build something from the ground up. The project has enabled me to utilize the services of many of my local trade connections, helping our local community,” said Marty Lakey, Owner of Marty Lakey Builder Pty Ltd.

LOCAL RACING CLUBS

Spendthrift have demonstrated a commitment to Victorian racing clubs by engaging in sponsorship beyond sponsoring races. In 2018, Spendthrift agreed to sponsor Werribee Race Club, now Spendthrift Australia Park at Werribee. Home to Racing Victoria’s International Quarantine Centre, Spendthrift Australia Park is a key location that allows international racehorses to compete in Australia. In addition, Spendthrift also sponsor the winner’s room at Pakenham Racecourse, supporting the race day experience for owners.

ANIMAL WELFARE

Outside of the racetrack, Spendthrift have also recognised the importance of thoroughbred welfare and life after racing. Racing Victoria’s Off The Track program aims to facilitate the placement of retired thoroughbred racehorses in second careers. Spendthrift are annual sponsors of the program, and proudly sponsor the Off The Track class at the Daylesford Show.

Following the devastating bushfires of 2019 and early 2020, Spendthrift sought to be involved in rebuilding the community and protecting native wildlife. Spendthrift donated $25,000 to the Australian Volunteer Support Trust and an additional $25,000 to the Victorian Wildlife Fund.

“The Californian bushfires finished right on the doorstep of Eric [President of Spendthrift] and his wife Tammy’s Malibu home, so they understood what Australians were going through. We can see that the bushfires touched the world and we just wanted to do our little bit to help,” commented Cuddy.

It is easy for entities to be actively involved in the sales arena, but it takes a lot more time and effort to demonstrate commitment to your local community. Spendthrift are proud to be operating in Australia and look forward to continuing to develop their relationships within the community over the years to come.