When Newcastle teen Jaxon Scriven was involved in a serious accident on the 7th of November 2024, which resulted in him becoming a below-the-knee amputee, his family knew he would face some challenges ahead.
What they did not expect was for the local community and Newcastle Racecourse, where both he and his mum work, to get behind them and put together a Race Day to help raise funds to help support Jaxon’s recovery and future needs.
Jaxon’s mum Clarissa Hilbig, who has worked at the Newcastle Racecourse for eight years as a Food and Beverage Attendant, was emotional as she spoke about the accident and the impact it has had on her son.
“The accident occurred when Jaxon was riding his bike in Fletcher,” says Ms. Hilbig.
“He tried to swerve to avoid a speeding car, but unfortunately was collected,”
“Jaxon ended up with an amputation after three surgeries and it has impacted his day-to-day movement and his ability to come work in his usual Casual Caterer role at the Newcastle Racecourse.”
Prior to the accident, Jaxon was quite an active teenager, and Clarissa advised the incident has been difficult for him to come to terms with.
Newcastle Racecourse CEO Duane Dowell explained that after hearing about the accident and the impact it has had on Jaxon, the Raise for Jaxon Race Day was created.
“As two of our own, we wanted to do for Clarissa and Jaxon what Newcastle Racecourse often do best, put together a charity race day to help raise funds that will make a difference for Jaxon’s future,” said Duane Dowell.
“We are asking for local businesses to get onboard and support the race day by becoming race sponsors, donating prizes and contributing funds to help Jaxon and his family. The community can also help by booking a table in the Pavilion Luncheon for the event or attending the race day.”
Jaxon’s Mum Clarissa was incredibly moved when asked what the Raise for Jaxon Race Day, which will be held Saturday 26 April 2025, means to them.
“I am speechless, I’m just overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation that our work family and friends are getting behind us to support Jaxon for his rehabilitation and his future,” said Ms. Hilbig.
“We feel valued to be supported by the Racecourse. Everyone has been here to accommodate us, and we really cherish having a workplace that values its staff and has stepped onboard in our time in need.”
Jaxon also expressed his thanks to his employer for creating the Raise for Jaxon Race Day.
“I am so grateful to Newcastle Racecourse for raising awareness and giving their support to me. The funds will make a significant contribution to my future needs,” said Jaxon.
Funds raised from the event will be put towards car modifications to help Jaxon get around.
Local Newcastle businesses who would like to get behind Jaxon and assist the event by becoming a Race Day Naming Rights Sponsor can contact Newcastle Racecourse Corporate Partnerships and Community Specialist, Julianne Christopher on 02 4961 1573.
Members of the community who would like to book and attend the fundraiser luncheon in the Pavilion room can also book here.
A GoFundMe fundraiser has also been set up to raise funds towards the purchase of an appropriate car with the modifications Jaxon needs. Donations can be made here.
To download a full PDF copy of the Media Release, click here.
