Greyhound racing is coming back to Cranbourne thanks to a major funding boost from the Allan Labor Government to upgrade the racetrack and deliver world class facilities and improved safety measures.
Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines visited the Cranbourne Greyhound Racing Club today to announce a $4 million investment through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund.
The club will also invest $2 million, with Greyhound Racing Victoria contributing a further $3.5 million.
The upgraded racetrack will feature the latest safety standards to address the concerns that saw racing suspended at the track in 2022.
Works will include a widened track base, an upgraded racing surface, improved lighting and advanced drainage systems - all contributing to safer racing conditions.
The club will also introduce new animal welfare features, including purpose-built holding and viewing pens and modern wash bays - ensuring the health, comfort and care of racing greyhounds.
Further safety measures include fixed starts at 650 metres, 420 metres and 330 metres, removal of drop-on boxes, a traditional cable lure and the newer Safechase system. The Safechase system has improved monitoring technology to identify risk and safety patterns.
The local economy will benefit from the creation of 15 new jobs, plus additional jobs associated with the construction phase of the project, with works expected to start by the middle of this year.
Prior to the track's closure in 2022, the Cranbourne greyhound track was a significant racing venue conducting 70 race meetings and over 15,000 trials each year. The local region is home to 200 greyhound trainers - making it the biggest group in Victoria
Victoria's greyhound racing industry generates more than $844 million in economic benefit each year and helps sustain more than 4,800 full-time equivalent jobs.
As stated by Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines
"This upgrade will provide a safe and state-of-the-art venue for trainers, greyhounds and participants. The racing industry plays a vital role in the state's economy, and our investment will back more jobs."
As stated by Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards
"This is a fantastic result for the racing community in Cranbourne. Backing the upgrade will boost our local economy - bringing together racing enthusiasts, friends and families for a great night out.
As stated by Cranbourne Greyhound Racing Club CEO Andrew Fennell
"We thank the Victorian Government for its significant investment to upgrade the racetrack. We know the redevelopment will greatly benefit trainers and the safety of greyhounds."
Quote attribute to CEO of Greyhound Racing Victoria Stuart Laing
"The Casey region is home to the largest number of greyhound trainers and second highest number of active greyhounds in Victoria and this investment will ensure that greyhound racing at Cranbourne can thrive."
