The state government this week released its Size and Scope of the Victorian Racing Industry report, covering thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing.

The report said the Western District region, which comprises 14 racing clubs in five municipalities, had a value of $100.1 million to the state economy.

Just on 75 per cent of the regional total was courtesy of activities involving 10 thoroughbred racing clubs from Camperdown to Casterton.

Three harness racing clubs and their stakeholders contributed 14.6 per cent, while the sole greyhound racing club and its stakeholders injected 10.4 per cent.

The three codes employed the equivalent of 986 full-time workers in the Western District, while there were 5449 participants, either as employees or volunteers.

Minister for Racing Denis Napthine said the industry’s overall value to the state — more than $2.8 billion — represented a 33 per cent increase on 2006.

“This study shows how vital racing is to Victoria and the many people who work in or enjoy this important industry,” he said.

The 10 thoroughbred clubs are: Camperdown, Casterton, Coleraine, Dunkeld, Hamilton, Mortlake, Penshurst and District, Terang and District, Warrnambool and Woodford.

The harness racing clubs are at Hamilton, Terang and Warrnambool, while the sole greyhound racing club is in Warrnambool.