The NSW Greyhound Breeders, Owners and Trainers Association (NSW GBOTA), as the state’s leading advocacy body representing greyhound participants across New South Wales, acknowledges the release of the Deloitte Greyhound Racing NSW Optimal Racing Footprint Industry Report.
The NSW GBOTA participated in the summit that helped shape the criteria for the review and contributed to early discussions about how the industry could best optimise its racing footprint. However, the Association did not anticipate nor support recommendations that would lead to the scale of statewide reductions outlined in the report.
NSW GBOTA Chairman Geoff Rose said the Association’s priority remains to represent the interests of its members and participants from metropolitan areas to regional and remote communities, and to ensure the long-term sustainability of greyhound racing in New South Wales.
“While we recognise the need for ongoing review and improvement, any future model for racing in NSW must be fair, balanced and sustainable. Our role is to make sure that the people who make this sport what it is — the breeders, owners, and trainers — have their voices heard no matter where they live, and their livelihoods protected,” he said.
The NSW GBOTA notes that feedback from participants throughout the consultation process was overwhelmingly strong in support of the continued survival of one-turn tracks, which play a vital role in providing safe racing options, supporting regional communities, and ensuring accessible competition opportunities for participants across the state.
The Association further believes that work should be undertaken on minimum track standards with the adoption of cost-efficient solutions utilised when practical to ensure that all clubs have the opportunity to succeed inclusive of not only Maitland, but other tracks named for closure in Wagga and Broken Hill.
“A sustainable future for our industry depends on a balanced approach that supports every region and ensures a diversity of track types,” Mr Rose said. “We must focus on smarter investment, uniform safety standards, and cost management — not shrinking the racing footprint. We will continue to work constructively with Greyhound Racing NSW, Government, and all stakeholders to deliver an outcome that respects the entire state footprint.”
The NSW GBOTA will now fully assess the report’s findings and develop a clear position that safeguards the industry’s future while promoting welfare, access, and fairness for all participants throughout New South Wales.
TAGS:
Share it:
