Racing Minister Tim Mander has unveiled plans for the redevelopment of the Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club, ensuring its future sustainability. The club has not hosted races on its grass track since September 2024, with Racing Queensland deeming the circular grass surface unsuitable. The proposed redevelopment will involve converting the track surface to sand, a move aimed at enhancing safety and track maintenance.
The funding for this project will come from the Racing Infrastructure Fund, offering much-needed certainty for greyhound racing enthusiasts in the Wide Bay area. Minister Mander emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting country racing and ensuring a thriving future for the Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club. The decision to replace the track with a sand surface is part of a broader effort to revitalize Queensland’s racing industry.
This initiative, initially set to be part of a wider industry review, has been fast-tracked to provide stability to the region’s greyhound sector. Notably, Queensland’s greyhound racing scene has been on an upward trajectory, with the upcoming opening of The Q facility set to further elevate the sport’s profile. Acting RQ Chair Jane Seawright praised Minister Mander and the Crisafulli Government for their steadfast support of greyhound racing and the broader racing community.
The Bundaberg sand track conversion is a significant development for the club, which typically hosts over 40 meetings annually and supports around 500 greyhound participants in the region. These enhancements will enable Bundaberg to accommodate more racing events and trials, further fueling the industry’s growth in the area. In recent years, the BGRC has seen various upgrades, including new infrastructure and assets like judges’ and broadcast towers, rail and lure systems, and a sectional timing system.
During the construction phase, Bundaberg trainers will continue to receive a $120 travel subsidy per trainer, with additional race meetings scheduled for Rockhampton to cater to the displaced events. The ongoing support and investment in greyhound racing underscore the commitment to bolstering the sport’s presence and ensuring its sustainability across Queensland. The BGRC’s evolution reflects a broader trend in the racing industry, where modernization and infrastructure upgrades are becoming increasingly vital for attracting participants and spectators alike.
The redevelopment of the Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club marks a pivotal moment in the region’s sporting landscape, signaling a new era for greyhound racing in Queensland. As the industry undergoes significant transformations and upgrades, stakeholders are optimistic about the future prospects and growth opportunities that lie ahead. With continued government support and strategic investments, greyhound racing is poised to thrive and evolve, offering a compelling spectacle for racing enthusiasts and participants alike.
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