The first step has been taken towards the construction of a straight greyhound racing track at Goulburn Greyhound Racing Club.
Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson and Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman today held a meeting with representatives from Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW), Harness Racing NSW, Goulburn Mulwaree Council, and the Goulburn Show Society where it was agreed the parties would form a working group to map out a plan for the precinct.
“There is a fantastic future for greyhound racing in NSW, and in Goulburn that future is a straight track,” Mr Anderson said.
“The NSW Government is currently investing $30 million to upgrade tracks right across the State to meet stringent new minimum safety standards and drive down injury rates in the sport. “$11 million of this has been allocated for track safety upgrades across Southern NSW and the Riverina, and Goulburn will benefit enormously from that bucket with a significant investment towards the establishment of a straight track.
“The comprehensive greyhound welfare reforms we have brought in over the past few years have had a real impact in driving down injury rates in the sport, and the next big step is the introduction of straighter track training and racing.
“We would never be in a position to make today’s announcement if it wasn’t for the fierce advocacy of Wendy Tuckerman and her community.”
Mrs Tuckerman welcomed the commitment a Centre of Excellence will be built in the city following years of campaigning to secure the facility.
“I’m so pleased that this community-led campaign has paid off and we will be the recipient of the first Centre of Excellence and straight track in regional NSW,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
“This is a huge win for our local trainers, patrons and the many racing dogs who will benefit from increased safety at the track.”
Member for Monaro John Barilaro said the investment would contribute to a safer and stronger greyhound racing industry in South East NSW.
“This is not just a win for Goulburn, but a win for the greyhound racing community across South East NSW for who this is their home track,” Mr Barilaro said.
GRNSW Chief Executive Officer Tony Mestrov said: “This is a great outcome that we have been working towards for many months. It is the second world-leading-safety-design straight track delivered in NSW, with more to come.
“We are committed to world-leading safety and welfare, and this is a great example of that in action.
“GRNSW and the greyhound community more broadly thanks Deputy Premier John Barilaro, Minister Anderson and local MP Wendy Tuckerman for their ongoing support of greyhound racing, this club and this fantastic addition to greyhound safety and welfare in NSW.”
MEDIA: Rowan Carter I Minister Anderson I 0418 571 533
