Stawell Gold Mines to sponsor Bill McManus Backmarkers 400m

Date: 19th February 2024

Stawell Gold Mines, a long standing player in Victoria’s mining industry, is the new sponsor of the prestigious Bill McManus Backmarkers Handicap 400m race at the Powercor Stawell Gift.

 The sponsorship reflects Stawell Gold Mines’ deep-rooted connection to the region and its rich mining heritage. The company’s involvement in the Powercor Stawell Gift underscores its commitment to fostering community engagement and celebrating excellence.

 “We are thrilled to partner with the Powercor Stawell Gift as the sponsor of the Bill McManus Backmarkers 400m race,” said Cameron Hope, Environment and Community Manager at Stawell Gold Mines. “This partnership continues our ongoing support of, and commitment to, the local community.”

 Stawell Gold Mines is one of the oldest continuously operating gold mines in Victoria, with a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century Australian gold rush era. It has been estimated that the region has yielded over 5 million ounces of gold since that time.  Stawell Gold Mines operates as an underground mine, with activities extending to depths of around 1,000 metres below the surface.

 As well as playing a significant role in the local economy, Stawell Gold Mines actively engages with the local community through various initiatives, including educational programs and community development projects. 

 The Bill McManus race honours the legacy of William ‘Bill’ McManus, an outstanding athlete who settled in Stawell. McManus was a formidable competitor, achieving notable success in various athletic events. He came third in the 1899 Gift and sixth in 1908. However, it was as a 440-yard runner that he truly dominated, winning the Pleasant Creek Handicap in 1899 and 1900 and securing second place in 1901 and 1902. In 1908, he triumphed in the 880 yards Stawell Handicap. Throughout his career, McManus achieved three first-place finishes, three second-place finishes, and three third-place finishes, leaving an indelible mark on the early professional running scene.

 “We are delighted to welcome Stawell Gold Mines as a naming rights partner and sponsor of the Bill McManus Backmarkers 400m race,” said Cr Murray Emerson, Chair of Stawell Gift Event Management. “This is a prestigious event which always attracts a strong field of some of the best 400m runners in the sport. The support of Stawell Gold Mines is very fitting and underscores the significance of this event within the athletics community.”

 As well as playing a significant role in the local economy, Stawell Gold Mines is committed to sustainable operations and actively engages with the local community through various initiatives, including educational programs and community development projects. 

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