Greyhound racing at the iconic Dapto Dogs is set to come to an end after 88 years of history. The Dapto Agricultural and Horticultural Society (DAHS) has rejected advances for a new long-term lease, leading to the closure of the venue that first began racing in 1937.
GRNSW had been in negotiations with DAHS for a 20-year lease to allow for significant investments in the venue. However, DAHS expressed concerns that a long-term commitment would limit its ability to adapt and deliver its evolving vision for the site, leading to the decision to end racing at Dapto.
Since 2019, GRNSW has been leasing the track on a year-to-year basis after racing was halted under DAHS management due to funding and scheduling issues. The closure of Dapto marks the end of an era for the venue that has been struggling for relevance in recent years.
Despite the disappointment of the closure, GRNSW CEO Steve Griffin remains optimistic about the future of greyhound racing. Plans are in place to modernize the industry in the coming months and years, with discussions ongoing about potential developments in the region.
While hopes of a Center of Excellence at Dapto may be slim, there is a possibility of a straight track being introduced to the area. GRNSW had previously purchased land for the Center of Excellence, but zoning concerns and funding issues led to a change in plans.
As the lease at Dapto expires in June 2026, GRNSW is considering its options for the future. The closure of Dapto comes as GRNSW launches its Track Optimization Strategy to discuss the racetrack footprint in NSW moving forward.
The decision to end racing at Dapto will have a significant impact on the industry, particularly in the Illawarra region. The iconic venue holds a special place in Australian racing history and its closure marks the end of an era for greyhound racing enthusiasts.
With the racing landscape evolving, stakeholders will need to adapt to changes and explore new opportunities for the sport. While the closure of Dapto may be a loss for some, it also presents a chance for innovation and growth in the industry.
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