While Liberal and Labor politicians are celebrating the Melbourne Cup today, the Greens are again joining a growing number of Tasmanians and saying ‘Nup to the Cup’
In recent years, we’ve seen evidence of the cruelty and death facing horses competing in the Melbourne Cup. These awful events, the work of investigative journalists and animal advocacy organisations have all accelerated the decline in public support for racing.
The community increasingly understands cruelty is inherent to the racing industry. Horses regularly die on racetracks and at training facilities across the country. Many, if not most, of these beautiful animals are sent to the abattoir at the end of their racing lives. There is no lifelong tracking of horses born into the industry.
Racing is a multi-million dollar industry with a business model built on exploiting animals for profit. This inevitably leads to neglect, abuse, cruelty and early death. In Tasmania, this is funded by a $40 million annual public subsidy. It’s appalling.
The Melbourne Cup is no longer the race that stops the nation. It’s losing public support and money each year.
The Greens will always be strong advocates for animal justice, and we’re proud to join with more Tasmanians than ever in saying ‘Nup to the Cup’.
