20 years in the saddle: TAC keeps racegoers on track

Published date: 26 Nov 2025

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is today launching the 20^th year of its partnership with Country Racing Victoria (CRV), continuing to help racegoers plan ahead, travel safely, and to avoid the deadly risks of drink driving.

As part of this long-standing collaboration, the TAC and CRV have worked together to ensure racegoers get to and from races safely; a commitment that continues this year with TAC’s Ready campaign at more than 20 Country Cups across Victoria.

The campaign encourages people to be ‘race ready’ and have an alternative to driving – taxi, bus or a lift – to get home from the races if they plan to have a drink.

The TAC presence at Country Cups includes on-site breathalysers, important road safety messaging and advice, and shuttle bus services to support racegoers coming from locations where public transport may be limited.

Drink-driving remains one of the leading causes of road deaths in Victoria, with around one in five drivers and motorcyclists killed on our roads recording a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit. The risk of death or serious injury is even greater in regional areas, where people typically travel longer distances and on high-speed roads.

Despite decades of education, the TAC’s most recent Road Safety Monitor - an annual survey of 2500 Victorian licence holders - showed that 41% of Victorian drivers still admit to driving after drinking, and 48% would consider driving after two or more drinks.

If you’re planning on having a drink at the races, don’t drive. Even small amounts can impair judgement, slow reaction times and increase crash risk. The safest choice is to plan ahead and avoid driving altogether if you intend to drink.

Quote attributable to Transport Accident Commission CEO, Tracey Slatter

“Country Cups are the social event of the year in many regional Victorian towns, by ensuring we’ve planned a safe way home at the end of the day, we can guarantee it’s a day to remember for all the right reasons.

“Planning your trip home before the first drink isn’t just smart, it’s lifesaving.”

Quote attributable to Country Racing Victoria Chairman, Charles Armytage

"Country racing is about celebration and connection, but it’s also about responsibility. As we mark 20 years with TAC, we’re doubling down on our commitment to help racegoers plan ahead and get home safely."