Traders saddle up for final meeting

By Alison Noonan
LOCAL traders enjoyed an evening of horsing around at the Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce’s final meeting for the year last week.
Business and community figures wound up a busy year with a festive celebration in the Trios Tabaret Furlong Room on Thursday night.
Guests enjoyed a playful punt in the Reindeer Races which raised more than $400 for Biala Early Intervention Services, as well as raffles and lucky business card draws.
Cranbourne Turf Club president Robin Daley gave an enlightening speech on the history of racing in the area, starting from the first race in 1867 to the present day.
Mr Daley said the turf club had grown to be one of the largest country clubs in Victoria, conducting 20 race meetings a year and bringing millions into the local economy.
“From modest beginnings the turf club’s on-course turnover has increased to one of the highest country clubs in the state,” he said.
“I am sure racing will be here for a long time.
“We should be proud that Cranbourne has such a complex and such a future in racing,” Mr Daley said.
Respected tipster and radio personality Deane Lester also entertained the crowd, while champion jockey Peter Mertens was unable to make it to the dinner due to a race in Ballarat.