THERE will be no “us and them” when it comes to the newly opened Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission in Bathurst (GWIC), Deputy NSW Premier John Barilaro says.
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The GWIC was officially opened in the Bathurst CBD on Monday following 18 months of turmoil for the industry across the state.
The NSW Government controversially banned greyhound racing in mid 2016 because of widespread animal abuse, before backing down just months later after sustained public pressure.
What followed were widespread changes in the sport, including the introduction of the GWIC which will be responsible for making sure the welfare of greyhounds is protected, ensuring those doing the wrong thing are held accountable and safeguarding the integrity of the industry.
At the official opening, Mr Barilaro said the welfare of the dogs and the sustainability of the industry was now the focus for the NSW Government.
“This isn’t going to be an us versus them, it’s going to be a collaborative approach to making sure that we have a viable, sustainable and long-term industry in greyhound racing in NSW,” he said.
Mr Barilaro said it was vital there was public confidence in the industry, the welfare of the dogs and its long-term sustainability.
GWIC chief commissioner Alan Brown will head the 60-staff member strong team.
“Greyhound racing is strongest in our regional communities, 33 of the 34 greyhound racing tracks are based outside Sydney,” he said.
“Bathurst provides easy access to those regional tracks and to Sydney itself.”
Minister for Racing Paul Toole said the government had committed $41 million to the industry, including $30m for safety upgrades at NSW tracks and $11m to set up the commission.
This isn’t going to be an us versus them.
- Deputy NSW Premier John Barilaro
Among those welcoming the GWIC’s opening was Bathurst couple Maureen and John Jones who have a racing greyhound called Jock Colley (named in honour of the rugby league icon and friend of the couple).
“It’s a good family sport and all the families of everyone I know are all involved,” Mrs Jones said.
The couple welcomed Mr Barilaro’s comments that the GWIC would not be about “us and them”.
“It’s not about who’s right or wrong, it’s about working together,” Mrs Jones said.