GBOTA Calls For Immediate Action

THE NSW GBOTA has called on Greyhound Racing NSW and the NSW Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission to take immediate action in addressing the shortage of nominations at race meetings across the state.

The news – which comes on the back of the Lismore meeting this Tuesday being abandoned due to insufficient nominations – comes at a time where more and more northern rivers trainers are opting to race in Queensland, given the recent increases to prizemoney north of the border.

"The NSW GBOTA wrote to GRNSW in November 2018, following the announcement of Racing Queensland to commit Point of Consumption Tax funds to prizemoney increases. At the time the Association requested a similar commitment for NSW participants from GRNSW," said NSW GBOTA Chairman Joe Cotroneo.

"The NSW GBOTA estimates 100 greyhounds are racing in Queensland rather than NSW each week, resulting in less than ten races, short fields and for the first time today, no meeting being able to be drawn.

"NSW TAB B Maiden events currently receive $830 per win, against Albion Park Sunday meetings offering $1400 and Capalaba events at $1050," Mr Cotroneo said.

"Similar margins apply to graded events also.

"Further south, participants in the metropolitan region continue to evaluate options interstate, with a prime focus on relocation to Victoria. Maiden events at regional Victorian meetings, equivalent to NSW TAB B meetings currently receive $1325."

Cotroneo also declared the NSW GBOTA has presented a paper to GRNSW, highlighting the extent of the current plight in NSW.

"The NSW GBOTA last week presented a paper to GRNSW which highlighted the decreasing returns to participants and impact of lack of growth," said Cotroneo.

"Point of Consumption Tax which flowed from January 1, 2019 was not budgeted for and therefore remains a revenue stream capable of addressing this critical issue which impacts the industry's commercial returns, participant returns and Club revenue.

"Beyond the immediate time frame, the NSW GBOTA believes critical work is required between GRNSW and GWIC to evaluate current breeding levels, and make immediate changes to deliver consumer confidence.

“Ahead of the March 23, NSW State Election, the NSW GBOTA has lobbied all parties to drive for the industry's fair share of funding.

"The NSW Greyhound Industry continues to get delivered the poorest outcome, we can't continue like this, it is time we demand better," Mr Cotroneo said.