In one of the biggest backflips since Daly Cherry-Evans broke his contract with the Gold Coast Titans to stay with the Manly Sea Eagles, New South Wales Premier Mike Baird has confirmed a backdown of its ban on greyhound racing in NSW following a sustained campaign of media and industry pressure.
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The NSW greyhound industry is said to be on its final chance and they will be faced with the strictest regulations that exist anywhere in the country.
President of Kempsey Greyhound Club Vicki Byrnes believes it is a huge win for the good people within the industry.
“It is bloody awesome news, we all have huge smiles on our faces because we know we can continue to do something that we love,” Mrs Byrnes explained.
“It shouldn’t have happened in the first place but I am just relieved that in the end the right conclusion has been met.”
Despite the ban being overturned, Mrs Byrnes realises the problems aren’t fully resolved for the country tracks.
“We definitely aren’t in the clear yet as country tracks could still get the axe with the government looking to focus on TAB tracks.”
It will be devastating for the Kempsey Greyhound Club as they have spent thousands of dollars improving their track and it will be lost money if they are still forced to shut down.
Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey welcomed the announcement and says the strict regulations will clamp down on animal cruelty.
“Greyhound racing will be subject to the toughest regulations in the country. It is now up to the industry to demonstrate its commitment and put this into action to reform for the benefit of all involved,” Mrs Pavey said
“I am well aware of the very real impact the ban would have on the good people in our community involved in this industry and its support industries.”
The new regulations include mandatory life bans and increased jail terms for live baiting, greyhounds will be registered for their entire lives, an independent regulator with strong new powers to ensure accountability and resources for enforcement and prosecution as well as animal welfare will be increased substantially.
