The National Jockeys Trust has announced the net proceeds from this month’s T20 Cricket fundraiser will be directed to animals affected by the current bushfire crisis.

Now in its eighth year, the fundraiser is held each January to raise funds for the Trust to continue to support injured and ill jockeys in times of crisis. Featuring top Australian jockeys playing against a team of Racing All Stars, the match is to be held at Williamstown Oval on Monday 20 January.

Paul Innes, NJT Chief Executive, said it was important for the entire racing industry to unite in the face of the unprecedented bushfire catastrophe currently affecting Australia.

“The annual cricket match has proven to be a huge success over the last seven years and a fantastic vehicle for people across the racing industry to support our jockeys in times of need. While we will always need the racing community behind us to continue our work, at this time we simply cannot ignore the dire and pressing need to support those organisations working to save the lives of people and animals at risk. We greatly appreciate the support of the racing community in assisting us to help others, and we call upon everyone to join with us now to contribute to those affected by this current crisis,” Mr Innes said.

Funds raised through this event will be donated to animal welfare organisations in NSW, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia, to assist their work in rescuing and treating injured wildlife.

“With animals being at the heart of our sport of racing, we have elected to redirect all funds raised from the T20 Cricket towards providing urgent care for animals in distress as a result of the fires in the coming weeks and months. We would like to thank our sponsors including TAB, Touchstone Farm and Heritage Finance and all those who have already pledged support for our players,” Mr Innes said.

Ecycle Solutions who are a major partner of the AJRA have kindly sponsored jockey Clayton Douglas for the event. People who wish to contribute to Clayton's cause can do so by donating here.