Illawarra greyhound clubs have been tight-lipped, but the region’s Labor politicians have bitten back at the Baird government’s move to ban racing in NSW from July next year.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In what has been dubbed a political move, NSW will become the first Australian state to shut down greyhound racing – a decision condemned by those close to the industry and welcomed by animal welfare groups.
The move comes after a Special Commission of Inquiry found evidence of systemic animal cruelty, including mass greyhound killings and live baiting.
Keira MP, and Labor’s Illawarra spokesman, Ryan Park said there was “no place for animal cruelty in our society”, but questioned how the government would help soften the “unexpected blow” dealt to the region’s 1000 greyhound industry employees.
“I am concerned that this decision has been rushed,” Mr Park said. “Not all operators in the industry are bad and it is the good people who will suffer the most under these changes.”
The Labor MP said State Parliament should have been given a chance to debate the industry’s future, adding the process would have allowed for further scrutiny and community consultation.
Labor Shellharbour MP Anna Watson echoed that call, saying an industry shutdown would have significant implications for the Illawarra, including the world-famous Dapto Dogs in her electorate.
Premier Mike Baird said the government would consult the industry “to help minimise the pain as best we can for the innocent industry participants”.
“I feel much empathy for innocent trainers and those who will lose their job or hobby as a result of this,” Mr Baird wrote on Facebook.
“But we simply cannot and will not stand-by and allow the widespread and systemic mistreatment of animals.”
The Dapto Greyhound Racing Club and Bulli Greyhounds were contacted for comment. Greyhound Racing NSW said it was “devastated” with the decision to shut down the sport.
“Right now, our primary focus is on supporting staff and industry participants in the aftermath of this announcement, understanding how this decision will play out in practical terms, and ensuring ongoing greyhound welfare,” GRNSW said in a statement.
It is understood urgent discussions are planned this weekend.
WHERE TO NOW?
Legislative changes:
- Phase 1: A change to racing rules, making it an offence to dispose of greyhounds without GRNSW approval.
- Phase 2: Appointment of an administrator to manage the shutdown.
- Phase 3: The Racing and Betting Act 1998 changed to ban greyhound racing.
Andrew Pearson
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
