Integrity improved for greyhound racing

The integrity and welfare of animals at Warragul Greyhound Racing Club will be improved with the installation of a new digital PA system and catching pen CCTV.

The state government partnered with Greyhound Racing Victoria and the club as part of a $105,000 joint funding package to deliver the infrastructure upgrades, along with three community-themed race meetings.

The state government is contributing almost $50,000 towards the series along with the infrastructure upgrades.

The club is providing almost $18,000 for the race meetings, with Greyhound Racing Victoria contributing more than $37,000 towards the infrastructure projects.

The series the St Leger race day on Sunday August 12 and the Love Our Seniors race meeting on Thursday October 18.

Warragul and District Greyhound Racing Club will recognise the contributions of its members and supporters at the St Leger race meeting, with patrons receiving a complimentary gift bag.

The Love Our Seniors race meeting will take place during the Victorian Seniors Festival from October 7 to 14, and racegoers will be entertained with live music from the Rusty Rockers.

Since 2014, the state government has provided more than $140,000 to support two infrastructure projects and seven race day events at Warragul.

The racing industry in the Gippsland region generates more than $59 million for the Victorian economy and helps to sustain more than 590 full-time local jobs.

Racing Minister Martin Pakula said the state government were investing in racing at Warragul because the industry helps to create hundreds of local jobs and contributes to the local economy.

“Community race days provide a great opportunity to bring the community together, and these infrastructure upgrades are important additions to the track,” he said.

Warragul Greyhound Racing Club manager Adrian Scott said the infrastructure investments will strengthen the race day experience and animal welfare at Warragul.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said the event funding would allow more people to visit the region and enjoy a day out at the races.