Animal welfare is at the centre of a significant upgrade to the Muswellbrook Greyhound Racing Track in the Upper Hunter Electorate, including a full track resurfacing, new electric starting boxes and improved safety measures.
Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell said the NSW Nationals in Government’s $1.2 million investment will ensure the safety of dogs racing at the track and enable the local club to host additional TAB meetings each year.
“The Upper Hunter is greyhound heartland and this funding will ensure the long-term success of the club and the health and safety of greyhounds,” Mr Layzell said.
“Our focus is firmly on safety, with the installation of a new safety rail, safety padding on the turns and in the catching pen, and the installation of a Safechase lure system.”
Minister for Hospitality and Racing Kevin Anderson said the completion of the upgrade at Muswellbrook offers participants another state-of-the-art venue in the region to race at, bringing more people to the Upper Hunter, leading to jobs and money in the local economy.
“Animal welfare is at the heart of the NSW National’s support for the greyhound racing industry which is why we are investing in track upgrades like this facility in Muswellbrook,” Mr Anderson said.
“Greyhound racing in NSW is big business, supporting thousands of jobs and bringing money into regional communities. When people come to town for a big race meet, they spend money locally, meaning everyone benefits.”
Greyhound Racing NSW CEO Rob Macaulay said the new track is something Hunter locals can be proud of – as a venue and economic driver for the region.
“Muswellbrook is the latest major investment into track facilities in the State. The strong support of the NSW Government, Minister Anderson and local MP Dave Layzell have made this possible,” Mr Macaulay said.
“We are all excited about what it means to the Upper Hunter. We estimate the facility will bring an additional $20 million into the Muswellbrook economy, and 20 additional jobs. This is what greyhound racing does within local communities, it supports livelihoods of participants and flow on benefits throughout the towns. I encourage supporters to come along to enjoy the grand opening.”
As part of its reform of the greyhound racing industry, the NSW Government committed $30 million for conditional capital grants to improve animal welfare, including initiatives to improve safety at track facilities for greyhounds right across the state.
The new Muswellbrook track was to hold its first full TAB meeting on Saturday, March 11 but Greyhound Racing NSW will reschedule the meeting to allow more establishment time for the racing surface.
PICTURE CAPTION: Dave Layzell and Minister for Racing Kevin Anderson join Greyhound Racing NSW to officially launch the upgraded Muswellbrook track.
