He once thundered around Sandown Park as Korda — a Group 1 Sandown Cup champion who earned nearly $400,000 — but today retired racing star Fred is celebrating a very different victory: helping mark the Greyhound Adoption Program’s (GAP) 30th birthday alongside his new best mate, Todd McKenney.

Fitzroy Freddie, as the TV personality has affectionately renamed him, will officially become the 20,000th greyhound to go through GAP at a family‑ and dog‑friendly birthday celebration at Abbotsford Convent on Monday morning. More than a hundred adopters — many with their long‑faced companions in tow — are expected to gather for the milestone.

For three decades, GAP has been one of Victoria’s quiet success stories: a program that began with a handful of volunteers and has grown into a racing industry–run and funded rehoming program that has reshaped how retired greyhounds are viewed in the community.

Thousands of Victorians now walk, jog, brunch and commute with their adopted proudly wearing GAP’s trademark green collar — a symbol instantly recognised across the state.

A key to GAP’s success has been its tailored approach to rehoming, ensuring each greyhound is matched with the right home. McKenney came to GAP with a detailed wishlist: an affectionate greyhound who could also conquer his townhouse staircase. Fred, he says, has passed every test in his short time living with him — stairs included.

On Monday, the adoption will be made official as part of GAP’s 30th birthday celebrations.

“I’ve had greyhounds for a number of years and they make such wonderful companions,” McKenney said.

“Fred has been with me for a fortnight now; he’s such a smart and great‑natured dog. He’s become a superstar at the park and a wonderful ambassador for GAP. I just love him to bits.”

Sean Stanton, Greyhound Racing Victoria’s head of rehoming operations, said he couldn’t be prouder of the community built around GAP.

“Thirty years ago, hardly anyone knew what a retired racing greyhound was like as a pet,” Stanton said.

“Today they’re one of the most loved, recognisable and gentle breeds in Victorian households. That shift is entirely thanks to this community.”

The free public event will run on Monday from 8am to 11am on the Heritage Lawn at Abbotsford Convent. To find out more, or to register your attendance, click here.