Green Light For Grafton Redevelopment

THE green light has been given to the redevelopment of Grafton racetrack with the NSW Government committing $4.6 million to the project from the Greyhound Racing Capital Grants Program.

On Wednesday, local Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis, who sensationally joined Kevin Humphries and Katrina Hodgkinson in crossing the floor for the proposed ban on the industry back in 2016, was delighted to unveil the project which will deliver Grafton the first-class greyhound racing venue it deserves.

"We gave a commitment to Grafton greyhound racing participants that we would help make the track safer for racing dogs and secure the sport's future in the Northern Rivers region, and today we are honoring that commitment," Mr Gulaptis said.

"The Grafton track was originally built in the 1940s, which is why we are investing in a modernised track to help greyhound racing continue to thrive across the region and contribute to our local economy.

"Our local track has always had strong patronage from the local community and with weekly race meets, is a significant TAB track in the Northern Rivers, which is why this multi-million dollar investment is so important."

The new one turn track will boast three racing distances – 340m, 427m and 660m on a track circumference of 596.4 metres.

The design will see the utilization of new technologies with regards to starting box placements, surface grades along with the installation of a state-of-the-art irrigation system.

A variable speed electric lure motor with braking capabilities will also be used, ensuring that the Grafton facility becomes one of the most versatile tracks in New South Wales.

And while the track itself will lead the way in best practice design, significant work will be undertaken on the surrounding facilities as well, including the construction of a new kennel facility that delivers state of the art animal welfare standards.

Greyhound Racing NSW Chief Executive Tony Mestrov thanked the Government for its continued support of NSW greyhound racing, the Grafton project part of the NSW Nationals and Liberals Government's $30 million, five-year Greyhound Racing Capital Grants Program, dedicated to improving track safety and boosting animal welfare standards.

"GRNSW worked collaboratively with the Grafton club to request the release of funds from the Government's grant program, and this project will ensure that greyhound racing can grow in the region while at the same time ensuring the welfare of our greyhounds and the sustainability of the sport,” Mestrov said.

The project is expected to begin in November and take around five months to complete, ensuring the new track is up and running for Grafton's famous July Carnival in 2020.

Other racetracks that have been upgraded under the NSW Government's Greyhound Racing Capital Grants program include Wentworth Park, Tamworth, Gunnedah and Gosford.