GRNSW addresses prize money cuts & Tweed Heads track delay
Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) continues to navigate industry challenges, with participants raising concerns over prizemoney distribution, financial stability, and the future of regional tracks.
These issues were addressed in the latest GRNSW newsletter, where GRNSW CEO Wayne Billett responded to questions from trainers, owners, and breeders.
Prizemoney remains a key talking point, with some participants feeling that high-profile races receive a disproportionate share of funding while grassroots racing struggles.
“For the past few years, senior administration has played ‘ducks and drakes’ with participants, and instead of the industry being ‘one for all’ most Owners, Trainers and Breeders have felt like it’s been ‘all for one,’” the newsletter stated.
GRNSW acknowledged these concerns and recently adjusted funding, reducing prize money for races like the Ladbrokes Country Classic, Ladbrokes 715, and Ladbrokes Thunderbolt to help maintain strong returns for regular race meetings.
The status of the Tweed Heads greyhound track was another topic raised, with participants frustrated by the lack of updates.
The track has now been closed for eight years, and while land has been acquired, there is little visible progress on the promised redevelopment.
“No updates; all we know is they bought some land. It’s been 8 years since they closed and promised a new track, and nothing seems to be happening,” the newsletter highlighted.
GRNSW confirmed that the Tweed Heads Coursing Club is still working through planning processes with the local council, though a firm timeline for the project’s completion has yet to be provided.
Some also questioned the decision to continue hosting the Greyhound of the Year function given GRNSW’s financial losses last year.
However, Billett defended the event, emphasising its role in celebrating the achievements of participants.
“I do believe that holding the Greyhound of the Year event annually is very important to the industry and its participants.
We need to be able to celebrate, recognise, and honour all the outstanding achievements and performances of our greyhounds and our people,” he said.
While these concerns reflect ongoing discussions within the industry, GRNSW remains focused on ensuring sustainability across all levels of racing.
Participants will be watching closely in the coming months as the organisation continues to balance funding, regional track development, and overall industry growth.