Gates will open from 5.15pm, with the first race starting at 6.45pm.

The event, run in partnership with Moonee Valley Racing Club, has become a very popular community event and has raised over $160,000 for local and overseas development projects.

Last year’s event, which was conducted for the first time at night, was a great success, raising $40,000.

To date over 13,000 race-goers have attended the event, with over 1,050 of these being children, making this a truly family event.

This year the exciting race night will also recognise the 150th anniversary of the Boroughs of Essendon and Flemington, which were incorporated in 1861. The Essendon Historical Society, who will be dressed in period costume for the event, will host a historical display for the community, with giveaways and colouring in sheets for the kids.

Proceeds from the Mayoral Charity Community Race Night go to support the East Timor community of Liqucia and local community groups. The event will also raise money for Prostate Cancer Research and Council’s 150th Anniversary Community Event.