Racing Minister Pledges New Track For Bundaberg

THE future of greyhound racing in Bundaberg has been secured with Minister for Racing Tim Mander pledging to deliver a new sand track to the region.

Racing Queensland (RQ) suspended racing at Bundaberg last September due to growing safety concerns at the last remaining two-turn grass venue.

The decision to cease racing led to growing frustration from participants who relied on the venue for racing and education purposes and under the former Labor Government had been promised that the existing grass track would be converted to loam.

In engaging with club officials earlier this year, Racing Queensland declared that a decision on the future of the track couldn't be made until the State Government had finalised its comprehensive review into the Queensland racing industry later this year.

BREAKING: The Crisafulli Government will bring Greyhound Racing back to Bundaberg.

— Tim Mander (@TimManderMP) May 13, 2025

READ: Tensions Rise Over Bundaberg's Racing Future

But in a boon for owners and trainers in the region, Minister Mander today announced that the Crisafulli Government would fast-track a rebuild of the Bundaberg track, acknowledging its importance to the local community.

"We have listened to greyhound participants, and we will deliver what Labor could not," Minister Mander said.   

"The Crisafulli Government has made clear its commitment to country racing and that includes providing a future for the Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club. 

"The replacement of the track will ensure a more consistent racing surface, which has advantages for both safety and track maintenance. 

"We are currently delivering the most comprehensive review of the industry in more than 25 years as we look to continue supporting the long-term success of racing right across Queensland."    

News that a new track will be delivered to Bundaberg comes hot on the heels of the opening of the state's flagship complex, The Q, at Purga.

Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club President and greyhound trainer Ricky Hassall thanked the Crisafulli Government for listening to industry participants.   

"Our club was promised a new sand track in 2023 and I want to thank Minister Mander and the Crisafulli Government for correcting that broken promise," Mr Hassall said.   

"Bundaberg is such an important piece in our industry's puzzle and services participants right across the state, so it is a relief to know we will continue to race here into the future."  

Greyhound racing in the wider Bundaberg region boasts an annual economic benefit of nearly $10 million.

"The racing industry employs almost 450 hardworking people in the Wide Bay-Burnett region," Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said.  

"Greyhound racing has a rich history in Bundaberg and this project will ensure great events like the time-honoured Bundaberg Cup will continue to attract some of the most recognisable faces in Australian greyhound racing to the region each year."