The switch to TAB status has put Bundaberg Region greyhound racing on the world map following today’s first televised meet on Sky Racing.
Punters, trainers and community members gathered at the Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club this morning, with the first race starting at 11.42am.
According to Racing Queensland’s strategy and development manager Brenton Scott, the switch to TAB was over 12 months in the making and delivers many benefits.
“The club has a long and proud history as a non-operating TAB club and it’s basically been self-funded out of the return of the on-course operation,” he said.
“The shift to TAB means that it links in to the off-course operating model and the wagering that takes place there.
“That means stronger coverage, off-course earnings through TAB and wagering operators and obviously that leads to the capacity for participants to earn greater prize money.”
Mr Scott said the switch to TAB would align the Bundaberg Region with Racing Queensland’s strategic plan in making the greyhound code as commercial as possible.
“By becoming commercial it allows us to take care of our other responsibilities around regulation, around animal welfare, etc.,” Mr Scott said.
“That provides strong social and economic benefits for the community.”
The elevation to TAB status is permanent, with the club scheduled to hold 52 race meetings a year every Monday.
“Pictures of Bundy greyhounds are going to be broadcast every Monday throughout the world,” Mr Scott said.
“It is a great day for greyhound racing and a great day for the Bundaberg community.”
Positive step for racing community
Bundaberg Regional Council’s venues and facilities portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth attended today’s meeting and said the change to TAB was a big, positive step for the racing community.
“It’s fantastic to see this happening today, we’re on the world stage,” he said.
“It’s a great venue out here, it’s never been showcased to this extent so I think it’s fantastic.”
Sport and Recreation portfolio spokesperson Cr Helen Blackburn echoed those sentiments.
“I think it’s a really important thing that’s happened here for the TAB to get behind them.
“For those that have greyhounds it’s fantastic, for people that are spectators it’s fantastic and in terms of financing this organisation, that’s also a win for the community.”
Last call for Trevor Halter
The televised meet coincided with a special celebration for local race caller Trevor Halter.
In a Facebook post by Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club, Mr Halter was thanked for his 36 years of race calling.
“Mr Halter called his last race (Race 4) today and we salute his 36 years of race calling for the Bundaberg Club,” the post said.
“On behalf of the President, Committee, Members, Staff and volunteers, trainers, owners & patrons.. Thank you Trevor.”
