Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on integrity and welfare breaches, following a decision of the independent Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT) in late November to impose a six-year disqualification on former trainer Gerry Orr for serious integrity offences.

The Tribunal found Mr Orr guilty of multiple breaches of the Greyhounds Australasia Rules, including attempts and actual purchases of permanently banned performance-enhancing substances. The decision can be found here.

“This type of conduct strikes at the heart of our sport and will never be tolerated,” said GRV chief executive officer Stuart Laing.

“Integrity and animal welfare are non-negotiable priorities for GRV. That is why our stewards investigated and issued serious charges against Mr Orr for his conduct which has ultimately resulted in a disqualification penalty being handed down by the VRT.

“A strong greyhound racing industry relies on the public being assured that greyhounds are not being mistreated and that racing is conducted free of dishonesty and blatant contravention of the rules.

“This outcome and the actions of our integrity team send a clear message that anyone who seeks to cheat or harm greyhounds will face the full force of the rules.”

The offences were uncovered through a proactive investigation conducted by GRV’s Greyhound Racing Integrity and Welfare (GRIW) unit.

“Our integrity team works tirelessly to protect the welfare of greyhounds and uphold public confidence in racing,” said Shane O’Connell, GRV’s executive general manager of integrity and welfare.

“We will continue to invest in intelligence, technology and enforcement to ensure a level playing field for all participants.”

The Tribunal described the offences as “serious” and emphasised the need for strong deterrence to maintain the image and fairness of greyhound racing.