Greyhound trainers in New South Wales are adamant that the industry has evolved positively since facing the threat of a shutdown in 2016. Lynn Maney, a seasoned greyhound keeper for over five decades, emphasizes the improved animal welfare standards within the sport. Despite a recent scathing report by the former chief vet of Greyhound Racing NSW, Dr. Alex Brittan, highlighting ongoing mistreatment of dogs, trainers like Lynn Maney and her husband Michael at Wimbledon near Bathurst, west of Sydney, attest to the industry’s advancements.
Dr. Brittan’s handover report upon leaving GRNSW painted a grim picture of the industry, citing inadequate animal welfare practices and a focus on financial gains over the well-being of the greyhounds. The revelation led to the resignation of GRNSW CEO Rob Macaulay and prompted investigations by both GRNSW and the state’s racing minister, David Harris. The government has demanded explanations from the GRNSW Board, including notable members like barrister Adam Casselden SC and defamation lawyer Rebekah Giles.
The specter of uncertainty looms over the Richmond Race Club, where trainers like Lynn Maney and young enthusiasts like Mackayla Clarke participate. Despite the industry’s tainted past, marked by a failed attempt to ban greyhound racing in 2016, stakeholders believe that substantial progress has been made in recent years. Mackayla Clarke, a 21-year-old trainer, defends the majority of industry participants who adhere to ethical standards and treat their dogs with care and respect.
While calls for a complete shutdown of the industry persist from groups like the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds, NSW Premier Chris Minns has opted for an independent inquiry to address the concerns raised. Kylie Field, the NSW director for the Coalition, expresses skepticism about the industry’s ability to reform effectively, pointing to past inquiries that yielded minimal change. Nevertheless, Minister Harris remains committed to ensuring a responsible industry that prioritizes animal welfare.
Despite the ongoing debate and controversies surrounding greyhound racing in NSW, trainers like Lynn Maney and Mackayla Clarke remain steadfast in their belief that the industry has turned a corner. As the sport navigates through scrutiny and calls for reform, the future of greyhound racing in NSW hangs in the balance, with stakeholders, regulators, and advocates striving to strike a balance between tradition, competition, and the ethical treatment of animals.
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