THERE will be no racing at Muswellbrook Greyhound track this Sunday.
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On Tuesday, Muswellbrook Greyhound Racing Club received a directive from Greyhound Racing NSW that all meetings on non TAB tracks had been suspended, pending a review of track safety, integrity, and animal welfare.
The club was already in shock from the NSW Government decision on July 7 to shut down greyhound racing in the state within the next 12 months.
The decision will signal the end to more than 100 years of racing history in Muswellbrook.
The local club’s committee said the announcement came out of the blue, leaving people inconsolable.
Between 110 and 120 people from around NSW visit the club each race meeting.
President Col Eveleigh said there had been a lot of reform in recent months within the industry.
“We just need the chance to show we can reform,” he said.
“We have reformed and can continue to reform.”
While they are devastated by the decision, the group still believes there is hope to reverse it and produce a different outcome.
Greta owner, breeder and trainer Bradley Sabotic often takes his dogs to the Muswellbrook track to race.
He is supporting the club in their efforts to fight for more debate on the topic.
“Everyone’s feeling it,” he said.
“It’s an unreasonable decision.
“There is hope; we can show them the reforms have been taken on board.”
Meanwhile, the Muswellbrook club is hoping the industry will be given more opportunity to continue in their sport.
With more than 50 members, as well as around 15 people employed, it is their aim to keep the track in operation.
Beyond the impact on the club, the group believes a stop to racing in Muswellbrook would have economic and social implications for the town as a whole.
Vice president Bob Fielding said the club buys most of their products for track maintenance from Muswellbrook hardware stores and suppliers, who would also miss out on business.
Those interested in signing a petition to lodge for debate in NSW Parliament on August 2 can email Peter Bryce at pdbryce@gmail.com
There is hope; we can show them the reforms have been taken on board.
- Greyhound owner, breeder and trainer Bradley Sabotic
Betina Hughes
It is an exciting time to be in the news industry as there are more ways than ever to reach our communities. Got a story? Email me at betina.hughes@austcommunitymedia.com.au
It is an exciting time to be in the news industry as there are more ways than ever to reach our communities. Got a story? Email me at betina.hughes@austcommunitymedia.com.au
