The Illawarra community is facing the impending loss of a cherished institution with the potential demise of Dapto Dogs, an iconic greyhound racing venue that has been a part of the region’s cultural fabric for nearly nine decades. The announcement by the Dapto Agricultural and Horticultural Society to discontinue racing at Dapto Showground has sent shockwaves through the local racing community and beyond.
For many, the significance of Dapto Dogs transcends mere sporting entertainment, evoking comparisons to revered landmarks like Jubilee Oval for the Dragons or the iconic Mount Panorama for motorsport enthusiasts. The emotional attachment to Dapto Dogs runs deep, with generations of families having participated in or spectated races at the historic track.
Trainer Allan Manwaring, whose family has a longstanding connection to Dapto Dogs, expressed profound sadness at the prospect of losing this beloved venue. Recalling his father’s involvement in racing at Dapto in the 1960s and his own triumphs on the track, Manwaring underscored the sentimental value that the venue holds for him and his family.
While the decision to cease greyhound racing at Dapto has sparked outcry within the racing community, financial considerations appear to have played a decisive role in the outcome. Reports suggest that escalating costs, including a substantial monthly rent of around $20,000, have contributed to the Society’s decision to discontinue racing activities at the venue.
Amidst the disappointment surrounding the closure of Dapto Dogs, newly appointed GRNSW CEO Steve Griffin remains optimistic about the future of greyhound racing in New South Wales. Griffin has outlined plans to modernize the sport, introducing innovative measures to enhance its appeal to audiences both locally and globally.
One such initiative includes a proposed development in Goulburn for a state-of-the-art “straight” greyhound racing track, touted as a safer alternative to traditional circuits. This forward-thinking approach signals a shift towards revitalizing the sport and ensuring its sustainability in the years to come.
The decision to discontinue greyhound racing at Dapto is not unprecedented, with a similar announcement made by the Society in 2019 before a lease renewal with GRNSW. The ongoing inquiry into GRNSW commissioned by the NSW State Government underscores the commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and animal welfare within the industry.
Meanwhile, across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand has taken a definitive stance on greyhound racing, with the government announcing a ban on the sport from July next year. This move mirrors past efforts in New South Wales to address concerns surrounding the industry, reflecting broader shifts in attitudes towards animal welfare and ethical considerations in sporting practices.
As the future of greyhound racing at Dapto hangs in the balance, the Illawarra region grapples with the loss of a longstanding cultural institution and the uncertainty surrounding the sport’s evolution in a rapidly changing landscape. The legacy of Dapto Dogs endures as a testament to the enduring passion and dedication of those involved in the greyhound racing community, underscoring the profound impact of this decision on both local heritage and sporting traditions.
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