Are you going through a challenging time? You're not alone.
If you are in distress or need help, please reach out to the Participant Support Program which is a joint initiative between GBOTA, GWIC and GRNSW.
Please call 1800 955 670 or SMS 0479 087 134
Please note, this is not a general enquiries line. For general enquiries call 13 49 42 (13 GWIC).
Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) have introduced new industry dress shirts, with one free shirt available to all NSW registered participants.
From Tuesday 22 November participants may wear EITHER a white shirt or the new blue shirt, and from 19 December 2022, all participants will be required to wear the new GRNSW shirts when taking part in a race meeting.
Order your new shirt/s by visiting https://bit.ly/3EVI2JR
When you place your order, you will receive a confirmation email. Once the order has been processed and packed, you will receive a second email advising your shirt/s are ready for collection at your nominated club.
With recent weather events, including significant flooding across NSW, participants are reminded that help is available in challenging times. From help evacuating greyhounds and finding emergency kennelling to mental health support, the Participant Support Program is here for you.
A joint initiative between GWIC, GRNSW and GBOTA, the program has been established for participants who need help for any reason.
Please call 1800 955 670 or SMS 0479 087 134 at any time.
Trainers in the Shoalhaven region are urged to monitor their greyhounds for symptoms of Leptospirosis following several confirmed cases.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection typically spread through rat urine which can contaminate food, water or bedding, and is contagious among mammals, including humans. The infection is usually picked up in stagnant water, such as puddles, and given the large amount of rain we have experienced this year the risk of infection is higher than usual.
Thorough hygiene practices are encouraged at kennels to avoid the presence of rodents.
Participants should monitor their greyhounds and seek veterinary advice if they have any of the following symptoms:
- lethargy and fever
- decreased appetite
- vomiting and abdominal pain
- haemorrhages on the skin
- blood in urine or no urine
- coughing and shortness of breath
- shivering and muscle pain
- bleeding disorders.
GWIC encourages trainers to vaccinate their greyhounds against Leptospirosis and include a routine booster with their greyhound's annual vaccinations.
For more information on Leptospirosis, download GWIC's fact sheet.
Participants are advised that the meeting scheduled for Gunnedah on Monday 10 October 2022 has been abandoned due to rising flood waters affecting access to the track.
Possession of prohibited substances and items – Information for Coonamble Carnival participants
Rule 149 makes it an offence to possess a prohibited substance or instrument which could be used to administer a prohibited substance to a greyhound (such as a needle or syringe), either on a racecourse or in a motor vehicle travelling to or from a racecourse.
GWIC acknowledges that participants at the Coonamble Carnival may be camping within the grounds of the racecourse and require access to prohibited substances or needles/syringes during the carnival.
Accordingly, GWIC advises that participants camping on the grounds of the Coonamble racecourse should seek permission from Stewards to have prohibited substances or items that could be used to administer prohibited substances in their possession.
GWIC Stewards and Veterinarians will be present throughout the carnival to assist participants. Participants are welcome to approach GWIC staff and seek approval to possess these items. No action will be taken against any participant who has approval from Stewards to possess a prohibited substance or item.
Trainers should be vigilant for signs of kennel cough in greyhounds, particularly around Young NSW, where there has been a confirmed case.
Symptoms of this disease are relatively mild with no obvious clinical signs other than a dry, husky cough that generally lasts for 3-4 days. Younger greyhounds appear more susceptible than older dogs, which may have some immunity.
The incubation period (period from exposure to development of cough) appears to be about 7-10 days, however signs may develop the day after a race or trial where the greyhound performed below expectations. Most dogs will recover without treatment, but you should seek advice from your veterinarian, particularly if signs of more severe infection or illness develop.
Once coughing starts, infected greyhounds should be isolated from healthy dogs and have around 3 weeks off racing, dependent on the degree of clinical signs. Healthy greyhounds can continue racing, but if they are kennelled with other greyhounds with kennel cough it is strongly advised to take a cautious approach and scratch those greyhounds too, as they may be incubating the disease and can transmit it.
While treatment is often not required, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics for more severe disease. Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) based kennel disinfectants will be more effective than quaternary ammonium compounds (e.g. benzalkonium chloride) and should be used in kennels and on equipment used by infected greyhounds.
Prevention includes:
- isolation of affected greyhounds;
- scratching all affected greyhounds and minimising spread;
- prompt testing to identify the cause of disease;
- disinfection;
- maintain good ventilation / air flow, as recirculating air-conditioning may increase the rate of spread by droplets, as will direct contact with affected water and feed bowls, muzzles, lures/toys, vehicles/trailers, bedding, etc.
- keeping greyhounds vaccinated to C5 level will protect them from circulating respiratory viruses and other diseases that may take advantage of lower immunity and spread during outbreaks.
Current vaccination status is now a condition of the NSW Code of Practice (Standard 3.12).
If trainers suspect their greyhound may have Kennel Cough, they must scratch them from any races they are nominated in. Do not trial them or take them to other communal training facilities; and withdraw them from GAP intakes. Allowing Kennel Cough cases to spread will impact on all aspects of the industry. We thank you for your cooperation.
For any queries, please contact vets@gwic.nsw.gov.au
GWIC recently issued some communications regarding approved animal exemptions which caused confusion and upset among some industry participants.
Under the Greyhound Racing Rules 2017, GWIC is required to approve and maintain a list of all animals (such as pets or livestock) that participants keep on the same property as their greyhounds.
In no way is GWIC implying that participants use their pets for baiting, and we sincerely apologise if the wording of the email suggested otherwise.
During the 2021 Registration Renewal process participants were asked to list any animals kept at the same property as their greyhounds. The purpose of the email was to confirm that those details have been approved and noted in our system, as required under the Act.
Participants only need to apply for another exemption order if the number of animals they keep has changed.
If you have any questions in relation to Animal Exemptions, please call GWIC on 13 49 42 (13 GWIC).
GWIC's Registration & Welfare Team will be moving onto the new eTrac system at the end of July 2022.
Once live, eTrac will benefit all registered participants by improving and streamlining registration services.
There may be extended timeframes for processing applications and notifications while we move onto eTrac, so we are encouraging participants to submit applications as early as possible during this time.
To complete registration applications or notifications, visit www.gwic.nsw.gov.au or if you require assistance, please call us on 13 49 42 (13 GWIC).
GWIC wishes to advise that there have been several confirmed cases of Leptospirosis in NSW recently.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection typically spread through rat urine and is contagious among mammals, including humans.
Participants should monitor their greyhounds and seek veterinary advice if they have any of the following symptoms:
- lethargy and fever
- decreased appetite
- vomiting and abdominal pain
- haemorrhages on the skin
- blood in urine or no urine
- coughing and shortness of breath
- shivering and muscle pain
- bleeding disorders.
GWIC encourages trainers to vaccinate their greyhounds against Leptospirosis and include a routine booster with their greyhound's annual vaccinations.
For more information on Leptospirosis, download GWIC's fact sheet.
Pursuant to Greyhound Racing Rule (GRR) 13(1)(a), the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission ordered an inquiry into the propriety of Race 3 at The Gardens meeting on 26 May 2022.
The review had regard to Greyhound Racing Rule 109 and its provisions which relate to the lure distance from the leading greyhound and the position of the lure throughout the Event. The original decision of the Stewards was to declare All Clear on the Event.
Today a Steward’s Panel consisting of the Director of Race Day Operations and Integrity Mr. Wade Birch and Senior Steward Mr. Dean Degan commenced a hearing to review the decision. During the hearing the relevant footage of the Event was viewed, and evidence was taken from the trainers of greyhounds that participated in the Event.
After viewing all the available footage of the event, Stewards established the following facts:
- The Starting Boxes failed to open immediately following the lure reaching the starting point breaching the requirements of GRR 108 (3); and
- The lure had progressed to be positioned shortly before the first turn approximately 60 metres from the starting boxes at the time of box rise in breach of the requirements of GRR 109(1).
Stewards also heard submissions from the trainers of greyhounds engaged in the event relative to their greyhound’s pursuit of the lure and considered evidence provided in support of their submissions.
Having regard to:
- The factual findings made by Stewards based on the available footage;
- The evidence provided by trainers;
- The Stewards’ own observations of the race; and
- The finishing margins between the runners and the overall time.
Stewards, in accordance with the provisions of GRR 109 (3), declared the event a No Race, finding that greyhounds had been disadvantaged so as to affect the outcome of the Event.
Action to Prevent Future Occurrence
As part of this review the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission has revisited the use of the ‘Bunker System’ which involves a Steward officiating from a position off-course. The ‘Bunker System’ was in operation for the Gardens meeting on Thursday 26 May 20022.
The ‘Bunker System’ has been utilised throughout the Covid pandemic to reduce the movement of Stewards, and to minimise their physical interaction with participants and other officials to ensure sufficient resources remain available to service greyhound racing in NSW throughout the pandemic.
Whilst the ‘Bunker System’ has served the industry well during the pandemic, it has become evident that the system inhibits the Steward’s ability to communicate effectively and to properly discharge their duties. The Commission believes the ‘Bunker System’ did contribute to the incorrect decision being reached by the original Stewards’ Panel.
Whilst limited circumstances may still require the use of the ‘Bunker System’, GWIC will aim to phase out this system and return all Stewards to officiating duties on track.
To ensure the highest standards of integrity and accountability are maintained in all aspects of the Commission’s regulatory activities the Commission has determined to conduct an inquiry into the propriety of race 3 at The Gardens racecourse on 26 May 2022 having regard to the provisions of Rule 109 of the Greyhound Racing Rules.
The Commission will convene a panel to determine this matter in the coming days.
The Commission commenced an inquiry into the bona fides of the training of greyhound Reel ‘Em Bluey, that was withdrawn from a race at the Gardens on 4 March 2022.
After hearing evidence on Thursday 19 May, the Commission has adjourned the matter to consider further evidence. It is anticipated that this matter will be concluded in the next two weeks.
At yesterday’s hearing the Commission made the determination to lift the embargo. The greyhound is now permitted to race.
Download the Inquiry Outcome - Randall Walter (PDF, 651.65 KB)
Greyhounds Australasia (GA) has recently completed an extensive review of the National Racing Rules, with an updated version of the Rules coming into effect on 1 May 2022.
The purpose of the review was to modernise the Rules and improve consistencies among the jurisdictions. The new Rules will be introduced in all states and territories.
The findings of GA’s consultation process can be viewed in their National Rule Changes Report.
Rule Changes
Although the numbering of Rules will change, most Rules will stay the same and trainers racing their dogs regularly may not notice the difference.
However, there are some important changes to:
| Prohibited substances | Residue limits will apply to ketamine, morphine and xylazine, because a greyhound may consume meat that is contaminated with these substances. Screening limits will also apply for some therapeutic substances such as dexamethasone. |
| Penalties for Marring and failing to pursue | The penalty for a first offence will remain at 28 days. However, the penalty for a second offence has been reduced from three months to 28 days and the penalty for a third offence has been reduced from 12 months to 3 months. |
| Rules relating to lay betting or betting to lose | A registered greyhound trainer must not place a bet on a race that their greyhound is participating in unless they are betting on their own greyhound to win. |
| Penalties for luring and baiting charges |
The Rules regarding use of lures have not changed. Only lures made of synthetic materials may be used in NSW. The new Rules introduce a 'three tier' approach to penalties for offences involving luring and baiting. |
| Rules relating to syndication | Local Rules relating to syndication have been removed from the Rules and replaced with the Greyhound Syndicates Policy which will also come into effect on 1 May 2022. |
| Rules relating to vaccination | All racing greyhounds are required to receive an annual C5 vaccination. This is already a requirement in NSW under the Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice. Participants will have 12 months to ensure their greyhounds' vaccinations are up to date. After this period, unvaccinated greyhounds will not be eligible to race in any jurisdiction. |
More information
For more information on the GA Rules Rework Project, visit the GA website.
Feedback
A will review the new Rules in two years’ time to see how they are operating. GWIC however will be conducting a review in 6 months time, or sooner if required.
If you have feedback about the National and Local Rules, you can contact GWIC on 13 49 42 (13 GWIC) or provide feedback via GBOTA or the GWIC Industry Participant Advisory Council – both groups meet regularly with GWIC to discuss matters affecting NSW participants.
The Greyhound Syndicates Policy has been developed to formally outline the registration requirements for syndicates and promoters, as the new Greyhound Racing Rules do not include requirements for these. The new policy is effective from 1 May 2022.
The new policy introduces Public and Private Syndicates and phases out Partnerships. Existing partnerships will remain unaffected, but no new partnership applications will be accepted.
A Private Syndicate refers to a syndicate of at least two people that is formed for the purpose of owning a greyhound. Members of a private syndicate must know each other before forming a syndicate.
There is no limit to the number of members a Private Syndicate may have.
A Public Syndicate is a syndicate formed for the purpose of owning greyhounds but is formed through a public offer that is open to anyone. Public syndicates must be registered as a company and hold an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL).
Promoters of Public Syndicates must hold a GWIC Promoter registration, as required by the Greyhound Racing Regulation 2019.
Both Syndicate groups are required to be registered with GWIC, however individual Syndicate members are no longer required to have a GWIC registration. This means Syndicate members will no longer be subject to the Fit and Proper Person Test or a Criminal History check.
The Syndicate Manager, however, must hold a Greyhound Owner registration as they are the individual responsible for making decisions in relation to the greyhound’s welfare, including keeping or rehoming the greyhound at the end of its racing career.
The Greyhound Syndicates Policy has been developed in consultation with key industry bodies including, GBOTA, GRNSW and GIPAC.
Download the Greyhound Syndicates Policy.
Date of inquiry: 23 March 2022
Decision-makers: Director Race Day Operations & Integrity - Wade Birch, Legal Officer - Annalese Summerson-Hingston and Director Compliance Policy & Legal - Matthew Tutt.
Name of relevant person: Ms Noelene Holloway
Outcome: Following receipt of a complaint that Ms Holloway had failed to provide veterinary assistance to a greyhound in her care, ‘One Jacob’, the Commission commenced an investigation and subsequently convened a panel to look into the matter.
The panel hearing the matter held a hearing via audio-visual software with Ms Holloway and took evidence and submissions from Ms Holloway in relation to the matter. Evidence was also provided by a veterinarian who provided treatment to One Jacob. The decision makers also reviewed documentary evidence including treatment records, written correspondence and other material.
Additional veterinary opinion was sought from an independent veterinarian who reviewed all the evidence, including the treatment provided to One Jacob.
The evidence of this expert was that:
- One Jacob was provided with veterinary attention when necessary; and
- There was no evidence One Jacob experienced unnecessary pain and suffering.
Upon reviewing all of the evidence and submissions, the decision makers were satisfied that Ms Holloway complied with her obligations under the Greyhound Racing Rules and as a result concluded the inquiry into the matter.
Call 13 49 42 (13 GWIC) if you need help. Contact 000 if you are in immediate danger.
GWIC is working closely with GBOTA and GRNSW to monitor the flooding emergency in NSW and provide assistance to participants and their greyhounds. Participants that need assistance are urged to contact GWIC on 13 49 42 (13 GWIC) or to call 000 if they are in immediate danger.
Richmond and Appin kennels are open for any participants who require temporary housing for their greyhounds.
There is no need for affected participants to worry about GWIC forms or notifications at this time.
Anyone with capacity to help with kennel space or supplies, please reach out to GWIC, GBOTA or GRNSW.
Despite GA's recent decision to defer the new National Racing Rules until May 2022, the Commission has decided that it is in the interest of the sport not to delay the introduction of three new Local Rules.
This follows the implementation of two new Local Rules in December, relating to pin-firing and breeding exemptions.
The new Local Rules are outlined below:
Abandoned Greyhounds: LR106B
The new local rule (LR106B) is intended to allow public trainers who have custody of a greyhound that has been abandoned by its owner to re-home the greyhound once certain conditions have been met.
Greyhound owners are responsible for caring for their greyhounds throughout their lives, and owners who fail to do so may face disciplinary action or even a charge under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979.
Lay Betting: LR87A
LR87A places additional restrictions on lay betting, or betting to lose. The purpose of LR87A is to make it clear to participants that betting against your own greyhound in a race, or having someone else do so on your behalf, or receiving the proceeds from lay betting, is an offence.
Participants from another state who are operating in NSW: LR15A
LR15A will require participants registered interstate who are operating in NSW for a period of two months to register in NSW. While the Commission recognises that participants frequently travel to other states to race, the purpose of this rule is to ensure that trainers who are consistently operating in NSW are registered in NSW.
Greyhounds Australasia has issued the below statement in relation to their decision to defer the introduction of the new National Racing Rules:
The adoption of a new suite of national greyhound racing rules is a significant step forward for the industry and a step that GA and the controlling bodies must execute with absolute confidence. Greyhound racing across Australasia is run across multiple IT systems. While the individual systems are ready to adopt the new rules, the GA Directors have sought further assurance regarding the integration of those systems and the ability of those systems to seamlessly work together with the new rules. We need to ensure the integrity of the industry is maintained and as such the GA Directors wish to advise that in order that further final testing on the technical integration can be undertaken, the adoption of the new national rules will be deferred until May 1, 2022.
For more information visit: https://galtd.org.au/