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Established in 1939, the NSW GBOTA not only provides membership advocacy, but the opportunity for participants to gather, share ideas and socialise.
Sadly, sometimes our friends leave us. The NSW GBOTA has generated this page to share vale notices, including Memorial service details.
Family of Members are welcome to send vale notices with funeral details and an image if desired for display on our website. These can be submitted to gbota@gbota.com.au
On behalf of the Directors and Staff of the GBOTA, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mr. Peter McCann, who sadly passed away on Monday Night.
One of few greyhound trainers still local to Glebe, Peter took to the sport from a young age at a time when “everyone in the suburb seemed to have either greyhounds or racing pigeons.” He began his owner-trainer career at fifteen with his own puppy purchased with his pocket money, Mitzy Mac, who was his first winner in a 700m Mixed Stakes at Goulburn. He enjoyed consistent success over the years with greyhounds like Dad’s Ambition, Single Hit, Some Folks, Gas Meter and Rumble Ranger who raced at Wentworth Park.
Our thoughts are with his wife Christine, daughters Holly and Megan, and son Matt at this difficult time.
Peter’s funeral will be held on Monday 14/10/2024 at St James Catholic Church, Wooley Street, Glebe NSW 2037, commencing from 11:30am.
On behalf of the Directors and Staff of the GBOTA, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mrs. Valetta McDonald, who has sadly passed away.
Aged in her 90’s, Valetta passed away after battling illness for some time. Valetta was a long-standing member of the Wollongong Branch and mother of Lorraine Currey and John McDonald, who are both well known in the industry. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.
On behalf of the Directors & Staff of the GBOTA, we extended our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mr. Ron Oldfield, after his sad passing.
Mr. Oldfield was a long-term GBOTA member and made a significant contribution to the industry as the Appin track manager, while also enjoying incredible success as a trainer, with the renowned “November” and “Spring” greyhound prefixes. In later years, he was a resident of Gwynneville.
To his wife, Christine, daughter, Nicole, and son-in-law, Glen, we send our love and strength to you at this very difficult time.
Vale, to a true gentlemen and icon of our industry.
Mr. Oldfield’s funeral will be held on Monday 17th June 2024, at Hansen & Cole, 634 Northcliffe Drive, Kembla Grange, commencing at 12.00pm.
You can view the service via livestream on the day, by clicking this link https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcxNzYxNDIxMzMxMjcwMyZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==
Warren Absalom is the brother of the late Robert Absalom, nephew of the late Ernie Absalom and husband of former NSW GBOTA Director Sue Absalom.
Warren had been a member of the Liverpool Branch of the NSW GBOTA and later Auburn-Lidcombe Branch where he served as Chairman and MDA delegate for many years. He was awarded the DSA in 2012. In his early days, Warren had success with greyhounds Calm Whisky and Folklore who was a placegetter in the Association Cup. After a break, Warren came back to owning and training when fellow Auburn-Lidcombe Branch Members, Ruth and Matt Matic, announced that Persian Belle was having pups. The mating resulted in Persian Spy who ran third in the Magic Maiden and fourth in the Golden Easter Egg. Persian Spy was raced by the Matics and the Absaloms. It was one of Warren’s proudest moments when he was dressed in a dinner suit and driven around the track in the MG as the handler in the GEE final. The family also bought two greyhounds from the Montana Millie litter also bred by the Matic family. The name Folklore was resurrected for one of the pups. She won over both the sprint and staying distances at Wentworth Park before becoming a successful broodbitch, with her progeny producing greyhounds such Folk Tails and Celestial Folk both of whom made group finals and won over the staying distance at Wentworth Park. As well, Celestial Folk was in the final of the first Masters Meteor. Warren was a huge fan of stayers and successfully trained many throughout his career. Warren had been living with Parkinson’s disease for many years.
On behalf of the Directors & Staff of the GBOTA, we extend our deepest sympathies to the Finn family and friends on the sad passing on Monday 23rd October, 2023, of the greatest greyhound racing icons of all-time, Mr. John Finn.
Mr. Finn’s contribution and success in the greyhound racing industry will be remembered for an eternity, having put the polish on some of the sport’s most talented chasers. He’s both inspired and aided an array of participants from all aspects of greyhound breeding and training, to which we are truly grateful for.
Having notched up countless group victories throughout his training career, some of his most notable chaser’s including NSW Greyhound of The Year winners Jessica Casey and Irinka Barbie, as well as 1985 National Derby hero Rapid Supreme, three-time aged classic winner in 2001 Winsome Dollars, champion matron Mink Mitten, History Lesson and more recently, Zipping Orlando, Zipping Kyrgios, Blue Moon Rising, Zipping Vanessa, Zipping Remus & Poco Dorado.
Vale Mr. John Finn.
On behalf of the Directors & Staff of the GBOTA, we send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of much-loved participant Mrs. Joan Singline, who sadly passed away on Monday 15th May, 2023.
Joan’s impact on the industry will never be forgotten and it’s only fitting we named a race at Wentworth Park this Wednesday in loving memory of her contribution and a true inspiration to all and she never missed a race.
It is with great sadness that the Association has learned of Sue Barton’s passing on Friday, July 14th, 2023. Sue will forever be remembered for her infectious smile and her eagerness to assist others. Many people will recall the night when her first greyhound, ‘Wyndra All Class’, sprinted away to win the Group 1 Futurity final at Wentworth Park. As Sue was fighting cancer, this victory brought tears to the eyes of everyone in the stands, but it was a moment of joy that she was able to cherish.
We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ken Cheetham on June 29, 2023. Ken was a remarkable man renowned for his exceptional training of top-line greyhounds, including Fine Chiang, Hows the Fort, and Take the Kitty. Despite his prolonged illness, he continued to train these magnificent animals until recently. Our hearts go out to the Cheetham family during this difficult time.
It is with great sadness that we let you know of the passing of Shirley Davidson. Shirley followed in her father’s footsteps to train Greyhounds. Shirley was a long term GBOTA member. Shirley trained Supreme Star 2020 NSW GBOTA members greyhound of the year, How’s It Going and Mini Norris just to name a few.
The GBOTA would like to send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Ronald White, who passed away on Saturday 29th October, 2022.
Everyone is invited to celebrate the life of this amazing man at Austral Bowling Club on Saturday 5th November, commencing at 12.30pm.
Mr White was a long time member of the NSW GBOTA and a well-respected greyhound racing participant, who will forever be in our hearts.
If you wish to attend his celebration, please contact Vicki ASAP on 0416020520
Ivan Zucchiatti, has lost his battle with cancer on Friday, August 19.
Ivan won nine races with Fast Magpie, a Wentworth Park winner, in 1990 and bred from her, securing Fast Maxine, also a Wenty winner in 2000.
Ivan especially enjoyed racing greyhounds he had bred and won seven races with Sizzling Black, including a 520m event at Wentworth Park in 2008.
Close friend and fellow trainer Michael Nicolaou said: “When Ivan went on holidays in 2017 he asked me to train Penatron and was over the moon when that dog won three races within two months for him at Wentworth Park.”
Zucchiatti, who was in his mid-70s, is survived by his wife Sally and a son and daughter.
On the 12th of August 2022, Gary John McKenna of Maroubra, peacefully passed. A long-time owner/trainer and protege of Les Harper, he first got his heart racing with a cream bitch called Tagadi in the seventies. She was his first ‘grey’ love and one he would never forget. As the years moved along, he held tight to his adoration for these dogs. When ill health came to greet, he turned from the track to taking care of those retired. He loved everything about this racing format. From the friendships to the winning formula and from the different personalities to making time for those in need. The greys were one of his happy loves in life, and he knew he was blessed to be loved by them. They became his passion, purpose, and shadow at times.
A chapter in the history of Australian greyhound racing closed on Monday morning with the death of Sydney trainrt Barry Lazzarini, aged 88.
Lazzarini, a qualified veterinary technician, lectured on the anatomy and physiology of dogs at Bankstown and Sydney Technical Colleges and also lectured on greyhound muscular injuries at James Cook University, Townsville.
Barry is survived by his wife Barbara and son Scott and a year after their marriage he presented his wife with a diamond ring as an anniversary present.
The Association was shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of long time member of the Richmond Branch Paul Abdallah. Our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends through this sad time.
The Association extends its condolences to the family and friends of Richmond Branch member Stephen Kutnjak who passed away April 9. Funeral details for Stephen will be posted once they are known.
The Association was saddened to hear of the passing of Gosford Branch member Les Hudson after battling illness. Our thoughts go out to Carol, and Les’ family and friends during this sad time.
A service will be held for Les on Friday April 8, Hillside Chapel, Palmdale Lawn Cemetary & Memorial Park, 10.30am
The Association extends its condolences to the family and friends of long time member of the Newcastle Branch Gwen Skinner at 93 years of age. The family advises that a service will be held for Gwen on Monday February 14, 2022 at 10am at James Murry Funeral Directors, 44 Blackhall Street, Board Meadows Newcastle
The Association is saddened to hear the news of the passing of long term member and GBOTA stalwart Barbara (Denise) Hill. Denise is an icon in Greyhound Racing being involved in the industry since she could walk & talk. Denise has been a Member of the GBOTA & Maitland Branch GBOTA for 53 years in the capacity of Treasurer, District Delegate and Owner trainer and more recently a Life Member. Denise gave her time unconditionally in volunteering raising funds doing 100 clubs, jackpot dog & raffles at both Cessnock track and Maitland Supporters Club & owner and trained many a good dog.
Denise’s funeral will be held Tuesday January 11, 2022 at 12 noon, Newcastle Memorial Park North Chapel, 176 Anderson Drive Beresfield.
The Association is saddened to hear the news that long term member of the Georges River Branch Bob Absalom has passed away after a long illness. Brother of Warren Absalom, and nephew of Ernie Absalom, Bob was originally a member of the Liverpool Branch. Bob enjoyed success as a trainer with Rockabye Lass and Sapphire Lass.
Bob will be farewelled on 11 January 2022 at 10am at Olsen’s Funeral Home, 83 The River Rd Revesby. For those who are unable to attend, but wish to pay their respects, the funeral can also be live streamed at:
The Association is saddened to hear the news that long term member of the Auburn-Lidcome and Matraville Branch Allan Maher has passed away. Our thoughts are extended to Alan’s family and friends during this sad time.
A service was held for Allan on December 22 at Rookwood Catholic Cemetery.
The Association has received the sad news that long time GBOTA member, former Auburn Lidcombe MDA Delegate and Group Winning trainer John Mooney passed away this week. Our thoughts are with John’s family and friends at this sad time.
For those wishing to farewell John, a service will be held on Thursday December 2, 2021 at 12pm, Greenway Chapel Green Point.
The Association is saddened to hear of the passing of long time member, Branch Official, and District Delegate of the Matraville Branch Leon Bozovitch. Our thoughts are with Leon’s wife Esther, son Matt, and their families at this sad time.
The Association has received the sad news of the passing of Janel Erwin, wife of Gary Erwin, both members of the Camden Branch. Our thoughts are with Janel’s husband Gary, and her family and friends during this sad time.
The Association sends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of GBOTA Life Member and former Secretary Ted Thompson, who passed away on the evening of August 11, 2021. Our thoughts are with Ted’s family and friends at this sad time.
The Association was saddened to hear of the passing of well-known and respected trainer John Heard. Our thoughts are with John’s family and friends during this difficult time.
The Association was saddened to hear of the passing of long-term member Joe Lopes. Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends during this difficult time.
A service will be help for Joe on Wednesday 24th February 2020 at St Peter’s Anglican Church, Cnr of Windsor and Chapel Street Richmond. Service will commence at 11am, followed by Joe’s burial at Richmond Lawn Cemetary, 92 Dight Street Richmond.
Family and friends will gather after the ceremonies to remember Joe with a wake at Richmond Club.
Numbers are limited due to COVID, if you are attending please ensure you notify in advance by contacting Natalie on 0400 018 232.
The Association was saddened to hear of the passing of long time Liverpool Branch Member Gerarda White, the husband of Ron White. Gerarda was a wonderful supporter of the GBOTA over many years and will be deeply missed. The Association’s thoughts are with Ron and Gerarda’s family at this time.
Gerarda’s funeral will be held on Monday 14th September, 11am at 190 Canterbury Road Roselands.
The Association is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of long time member Gerry Lee.
Gerry was a life-long participant in the greyhound industry, a long term member of the Gosford Branch and a NSW GBOTA Director, representing the Hunter River District, for at least two terms. He also served for a period as vice-chairman.
Gerry was very well known in the Gosford/Hunter region, enjoyed substantial friendships within the greyhound industry and was deeply respected as a productive and progressive administrator.
Based at Gosford, Gerry drove many improvements at the Maitland and Gosford tracks during his time as a Director. With a background in commerce and logistics, he was also a valuable and balanced contributor to business decisions of the NSW GBOTA. He was a strong advocate for the needs of participants and, without fail, presented positively for both the NSW GBOTA and the wider NSW greyhound industry.
Gerry was an experienced and skilled trainer whose advice, given freely, was valued by many and was instrumental in guiding younger participants.
Gerry will be deeply missed by all in our industry who knew him. Our thoughts are with Gerry’s family and friends at this sad time.
The Association was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of friend of the GBOTA Pat McDonald, the wife of long term GBOTA employee Hec McDonald. Pat was a wonderful supporter of the Lismore Greyhound Track over many years, and will be deeply missed. The Association’s thoughts are with Pat’s family and friends at this time.
The Association was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of GBOTA member Wendy Brown, who along with husband John, have been long term members of the Association. The Greyhound Recorder has written a beautiful tribute to our friend Wendy, you can read it here. Our thoughts and condolences are with Wendy’s family and friends at this sad time.
The Association is saddened to hear of the passing of GBOTA member Alfie Hayes, who trained champion stayer Travel Rev in the early 70s. Travel Rev is widely considered the greatest long-distance greyhound to race over the 800 yards (732m) trip at Harold Park.
A private funeral has been held for Alfie. Our thoughts and condolences are with Alfie’s family and friends at this sad time.
Jeff Collerson has written a lovely story on our friend Alfie, click on the link below to read:
https://www.thedogs.com.au/news/2020-06-29/vale-alfie-hayes
The Association is saddened to announce the passing of Kerrie Cross.
A valued and long-serving employee of NSW GBOTA and Wentworth Park, KErrie passed away last Friday after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
Kerrie is survived by son James, daughter Sarah and grand-daughter Ellie.
Our thoughts and condolences are with Kerrie’s family and friends.
The Association is saddened to announce the passing of our great Camden Branch member and friend Beverley Mahoney.
Bev was an inaugural member of the Camden Branch of the GBOTA which was formed in 1992. Bev was the inaugural treasurer and held that position until 2016.
Bev was made a Life Member of the Camden Branch due to her tireless work for the Branch.
In 2012 Bev was awarded the highly recognised GBOTA Distinguished Service Award for her much dedicated service of 20 continuous years service to the GBOTA Camden Branch.
Bev and Dennis bred, owned and trained many, many great greyhounds over the years, including 2004 Sydney Cup Winner Resigned.
Bev’s funeral will be held on Wednesday 4th March, 2020 at Gledswood Homestead, 900 Camden Valley Way Catherine Fields, at 11.00am.
Bev will be greatly missed by her many greyhound friends and family. Our thoughts are with Dennis, and Bev’s family and friends at this sad time.
The Association is saddened to hear of the passing of long term Gosford employee Ron Wright last Monday. Our thoughts are with Ron’s friends and family during this time.
Ron has been a wonderful employee for the Gosford GBOTA for many years, always seen welcoming patrons and participants at the main gate on race nights.
Those wishing to farewell Ron are advised that a memorial service will be held for Ron on Thursday March 29, 2019 at Palmdale Lawn Cemetary and Memorial Park, Palmdale Road, Palmdale.
The Association is saddened to hear of the passing of Wollongong member Nancy Willis on January 1, 2019. Details will be provided to the service once known. Our thoughts are with Nancy’s family and friends.
The Association is saddened to hear of the passing of member Mollie Rowe early this morning, December 31, 2018. Our thoughts are with Mollie’s family and friends at this time.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 4, 2019 at Immaculate Conception Church, Address: 48-50 Princes Hwy, Unanderra NSW 2526 at 9.30am.
The Association is saddened to hear of the passing of The Association’s patron Len Herbert on Wednesday. Thoughts are with family and friends during this difficult time.
Len’s funeral will be held at 11am on Friday 14th December. The service will be held in the Rose Chapel, at Palmdale Lawn Cemetary and Memorial Park, Palmdale Road, Palmdale.
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of fellow GBOTA member and Camden Branch Member, Alan Bonham. Alan died at Campbelltown Hospital on Wednesday 5th December 2018.
His many friends mourned the passing of City-Parramatta Branch member Philippe Degraeve in September 2018.
Phil was a longtime member of the GBOTA, and served a term as Chairman of the Parramatta Branch in 2012, prior to the amalgamation with City Branch.
Among his winners were One Penny, Revlon Bale, Winged Flash, Winged Turbo, Winged Prince, One Trick Pony.
At the time of his passing at age 84, he still had two greyhounds in his care.
The Association was saddened to hear of the passing of member Amelia Little. Our thoughts are with Amelia’s family and friends during this time.
The Association was saddened to hear of the sudden passing of former MDA Delegate and Liverpool Branch Member Roger Thomas on Friday 9th March. Our thoughts go out to Roger’s family and friends during this time.
Further details of funeral arrangements will be provided once the Association is advised.
The Association is saddened to hear of the passing of respected trainer and long time NSW GBOTA member. George Singline on Wednesday, January 31, 2018 the age of 94. Our thoughts are with George’s family and friends at this time.
Funeral details:
Monday, February 5, 2018 @11.30am at Parmdale Crematorium Hillside Chapel, with service following at Wyong Golf Club.
The NSW GBOTA sadly advises of the passing of Camden Branch member, Phyllis “Toddy” Wilton on Wednesday, January 10, 2018.
6.10.2017
The GBOTA is saddened to hear this morning of the passing of Camden Branch Stalwart Rick Hodgson. Rick was the point score captain and Vice Chairman for over 20 years, a tireless worker for the GBOTA. Our thoughts are with Rick’s family and friends at this time.
(Pa, Pop or Mr Mac to those closest)
Long standing Wollongong Branch Member
29/4/1930 – 1/10/17
6.9.17
The NSW GBOTA is saddened to advise of the passing of Auburn-Lidcombe member, Matthew Matic.
Members are advised that a memorial service will not be held, in line with Matthew’s wishes.
The NSW GBOTA is saddened to advise of the sudden passing of Goulburn member, Ms Nicole Donovan.
Nicole passed away on July 19, with her funeral to be held, Wednesday, August 2, 2017 at 11am at the Bowral Church of Christ; 56 Wingecarribee St, Bowral NSW 2576
Members of the NSW Greyhound community are putting on a benefit event for Nicole’s family, at Shoalhaven GRC (Nowra) on Saturday, August 19 from mid morning; with live band, monster raffle and jumping castle.
The NSW GBOTA is saddened to advise that Life Member, Harry Hughes has passed away.
Mr Hughes funeral service was held on Monday, 20 March, 2017 at North Chapel, Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Camden Valley Way, Leppington.
Eulogy courtesy of George Hayes
Harry passed away on March 10th 2017. His funeral service was on Monday March 20th 2017. Harry was aged 94 years of age.
He was honoured with Life Membership of the GBOTA in 2011- for his service and support of the GBOTA. Harry served several terms as an MDA Delegate for the City Branch, prior to the amalgamation of City & Parramatta Branches.
He was still training greyhounds well into his eighties, in fact was Harry still putting on the collar and lead up to 2010 .
Some greyhounds Harry enjoyed success with included: Choppy Waters, Ebony Brin, Fair Value, Gold Zar, Light Spring, Pet Rock.Harry Hughes was a stalwart within the GBOTA, together with his wife, Irene, who predeceased him.
The Association is saddened to hear this morning of the passing of Paul Barnes. Paul came to the Association as Manager of Bulli and like many was an all rounder willing to give any job a go to ensure things went ahead. Our thought are with Paul’s family and friends
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