Former Victorian Police Chief spearheads SA greyhound racing investigation
In a significant move to ensure integrity and transparency in the greyhound racing industry, former Victorian Police Chief, Graham Ashton, has been appointed to lead an independent probe into the sport.
Ashton, who served as the top police official in Victoria from 2015 to 2020, will be tasked with investigating allegations of misconduct and corruption within the greyhound racing sector.
The inquiry comes in the wake of recent scandals that have rocked the industry, casting shadows over its reputation.
“Integrity is paramount in the racing industry, and we must ensure that the rules are followed to the letter,” said Victorian Racing Minister Martin Pakula in a statement.
“Graham Ashton's experience and leadership will be invaluable in this investigation.”
The probe will focus on various aspects of the greyhound racing industry, including animal welfare, betting irregularities, and potential conflicts of interest. It is expected to provide recommendations to enhance the governance and regulation of the sport.
Greyhound racing has a rich history in Australia, with the first official race taking place in 1927.
The sport has since grown to become a significant part of the country's cultural fabric, generating billions in revenue annually.
However, it has also faced criticism and legal challenges over animal welfare concerns and alleged unethical practices.
Many of those challenges came to a head in the ill-fated NSW Greyhound ban that saw the demise of Premier Mike Baird, and Deputy Premier Troy Grant.
The appointment of Ashton, a respected figure with a track record of upholding the law, signals a strong commitment by the Victorian government to address these issues head-on.
The investigation is seen as a crucial step in rebuilding trust and confidence in the sport.
Ashton expressed his determination to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, stating, “I am committed to ensuring that this inquiry is conducted with the utmost integrity and that we get to the bottom of any wrongdoing.”
The greyhound racing community has largely welcomed the appointment, recognizing the need for an independent and transparent investigation.
The probe's findings are expected to be released in the coming months, with the potential to reshape the future of greyhound racing in South Australia.