Several NSW greyhound racing tracks will close as others are upgraded as part of a new safety push.
More than $18.3 million will be allocated for projects to make the sport safer for dogs and people, Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) announced this week.
The strategy is aimed at bringing race tracks up to defined standards for safety, animal welfare and occupational health and safety.
The changes would come at the cost of some regional race tracks, GRNSW chief executive Rob Macaulay said.
“There will be a period of transition negotiated with clubs and communities to implement those changes,” he said.
In the state’s northwest, Moree’s track will close and a new, straight track will be built to replace the existing circle track in Tamworth as part of an agreement struck with the local club.
Straight tracks are considered safer as they reduce the likelihood of dogs being injured negotiating bends.
Then-Premier Mike Baird announced a ban on greyhound racing in NSW in 2016 but backflipped before it was due to take effect.
A panel subsequently made recommendations to reform the industry and improve animal welfare.
Key points
REGION – NEW ENGLAND/NORTH WEST
- Moree track closed.
- Existing Tamworth racetrack to be closed permanently. New straight track racing facility be established on greenfield site pursuant to current MOU in place between Tamworth GRC and GRNSW.
- Status quo for TAB racing in Gunnedah.
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