Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) Stewards will seek a review of the decision of the independent Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board (RADB) in relation to the penalty imposed on Mr Bradley Keel on 28 September 2015.

The RADB determined that Mr Keel be disqualified for a period of 18 months but such disqualification to be wholly suspended during that period subject to no further breach of any rule relating to the treatment and care of greyhounds within his care and custody.

The Stewards will seek a review on the grounds that the penalty imposed was manifestly inadequate and that the disqualification period should not have been wholly suspended.

Mr Keel was charged and found guilty on two counts of striking a greyhound in his care to the head with excessive or brutal force.

GRV Chief Executive Alan Clayton said the organisation was disappointed with the message the wholly suspended disqualification sends to others in the industry.

“Although the length of the disqualification appears significant, the fact it has been wholly suspended allows Mr Keel to be able to immediately continue participating in the industry despite the finding of guilt for striking a greyhound,” Mr Clayton said.

“There is no reason to strike a greyhound with a fist under any circumstances and this behaviour must be appropriately penalised and eradicated.

“There is no place for animal cruelty in greyhound racing and the community, and indeed the industry, expects more of its participants,” he added.