The Mansfield District Race Club and the Transport Accident Commission have joined forces to make sure people who want to attend the the Marks IGA Melbourne Cup Day Picnic Races can do so safely.

So, leave your car at home and take the bus.

Free shuttle buses will run from the bus stop on the Highett Street side of the Courthouse.

In addition to the town shuttlebus between 11.00am and 5.00pm, there will be a service from Bonnie Doon, Merrijig and Gough’s Bay.

The Bonnie Doon bus will depart from the Bonnie Doon Hote at 10.30aml and return from the racecourse main gate at 5.00pm.

Merrijig residents can board the bus at the Merrijig Motor Inn at 10.30am and return at 5.00pm.

A Gough’s Bay bus will leave the Gough’s Bay General Store at 10.30am and 11.30 am, returning from the racecourse at 4.30pm and 5.30pm.

While bookings are not required for the town shuttlebus, they are essential for all other services. To secure your seats please email events@mansfieldraces.com.au and indicate the number you require.

A Safe Travel grant from the TAC has assisted to provide the bus services.

The MDRC President Leanne Backwell comments that the assistance from the TAC, via Country Racing Victoria is greatly appreciated, as it supports the Club’s mission of safe travel and the avoidance of drink driving.

“The MDRC is committed to safe travel to and from the racecourse. We encourage patrons from the town and surrounds to book now to take advantage of free and safe transport to fabulous day of picnic racing,” she says.