Racing Towards a Sustainable Future: VRC’s Commitment to Responsible Event Management
As Melbourne gears up for the race that stops the nation, the excitement around the 2025 Lexus Melbourne Cup is undeniable. For many Victorians, the long weekend leading up to Cup Day is a time to celebrate, and a chance to gather with friends and family to enjoy one of Australia’s most iconic sporting and cultural traditions.
But behind the glamour, fashion, and thunder of hooves on the track, the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) is working hard to ensure that this iconic event is also leading the charge on sustainability.
A Clear Charter for Change
The VRC’s Sustainability Charter sets out a strong commitment to responsible environmental management across all aspects of its operations - from the Melbourne Cup Carnival to year-round venue management at Flemington Racecourse.
This charter is built around several key priorities:
Sustainable Event Management: Ensuring the Melbourne Cup Carnival remains a world-class event while embedding environmentally responsible practices at every level.
Efficient Resource Use: Reducing energy and water consumption through smarter systems, and minimising the use of chemicals and consumables.
Waste and Effluent Management: Continually improving waste management and recycling initiatives to reduce landfill and environmental impact.
Community Engagement and Leadership: Setting best-practice standards in environmental management and engaging the wider community in sustainability education and awareness.
These actions reflect a deep understanding that major events carry both the privilege and the responsibility of influence — and that their choices can set the standard for the wider sporting and events community.
Aligning with the Sports Environment Alliance Vision
As a founding member of Sports Environment Alliance (SEA), the VRC’s commitment perfectly aligns with SEA’s mission to support and amplify climate-positive actions across sport and recreation.
At SEA, we champion organisations that take bold steps towards a more sustainable future, proving that sporting excellence and environmental responsibility can, and should, go hand in hand.
“The VRC’s Sustainability Charter reflects what SEA is all about - helping sport and event organisations do more with less, protect our shared environment, and ensure that the places we play can thrive for generations to come.”
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival approaches, we celebrate not only the spirit of competition but also the progress being made behind the scenes. The VRC’s leadership shows that even long-standing traditions can evolve to meet the challenges of a changing climate.
Because ultimately, the most important race is the one towards a sustainable, resilient, and thriving planet.
No Planet, No Play.
Learn more about the Victoria Racing Club’s Sustainability Charter: