General News
24 February, 2026
Marquee guests deliver a boost to Great Western CFA
THE champagne corks had barely settled on this year’s Great Western Cup before Seppelt Circle guests made a decision that speaks volumes about the heart of Great Western. For the third year in a row, guests in the Seppelt Circle VIP enclosure unanimously donated their entire Punters Club winnings to the Great Western CFA, presenting $2,740 to the brigade in recognition of their ongoing service to the community.
The cash was officially handed over during the Great Western Hotel’s Friday Night Happy Hour and Members Draw, a much-loved weekly ritual that also supports the CFA through a pub staple, a Friday night meat raffle.
Each year, Seppelt Circle guests form a Punters Club as the race day unfolds.
When the final bets are settled and the kitty tallied, the choice is simple, take home the winnings or give something back.
For three consecutive years, the answer has been the same.
“This is what the Great Western Cup is really about,” said Bruce Achchow of Seppelt Great Western.
“It is a day that celebrates racing, hospitality and the best of our region, but it is also about standing behind the people who stand behind this community all year round. The Great Western CFA plays a critical role in protecting our community, and we are incredibly proud of our Seppelt Circle guests for choosing to give back in such a meaningful way.”
The $2,740 contribution will go towards the ongoing maintenance of CFA vehicles, ensuring the brigade remains equipped and ready to respond wherever they are needed.
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