The Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources has released the final version of the Code of Practice for the Keeping of Racing Greyhounds.
GRV Chief Executive Officer Alan Clayton said release of the Code would bring greater certainty for participants and industry investment.
“GRV looks forward to working with the Victorian Greyhound Racing Clubs Association, GOTBA, all 13 clubs, and other key stakeholders to ensure all participants understand and comply with the Code,” Mr Clayton said.
“Once we have all had an opportunity to absorb the Code, GRV and key stakeholders will outline what support and assistance we can provide in making compliance as simple and easy as possible for participants and new people joining the sport.
“That support will include a dedicated GRV web page, which will soon go live, for all things Code related.
“It’s important to note that the Code does not come into effect until 1 January 2020 which gives everyone 20 months to meet their obligations.”
Removal of muzzles from 2019
GRV also welcomes the Government’s decision that non-racing greyhounds will no longer be required to be muzzled in public from 1 January 2019 but will still need to be leashed.
Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford has advised GRV that the 2019 timing provides an opportunity to ensure prospective greyhound owners are properly educated on the temperament and behaviour of greyhounds.
“This timing will ensure that the great work being done to rehome greyhounds is complemented by responsible pet ownership education specific to the breed, to reduce the risk of incidents.”
The Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) has advised
that it has printed 2000 bound copies of for participants and stakeholders.
150 copies are being sent to each of GRV’s 13 clubs, and 50 copies to GRV’s head office in Chetwynd
Street West Melbourne, for distribution to participants and stakeholders.
Hard copies of the Code of Practice are available at all Victorian Greyhound Racing Clubs.
