Cannington Incident Prompts Renewed Calls to End Greyhound Racing
Calls to end greyhound racing have intensified following an incident at a Perth suburban race track where four dogs were injured and two were euthanized. Racing at the Cannington greyhound track was abandoned on Wednesday night after the seventh race, out of a scheduled twelve, due to the injuries sustained by the four dogs, according to Racing and Wagering WA (RWWA).
Local Concerns and Mayor's Demand for Phase-Out
Canning Mayor Patrick Hall urged the state government to consider public sentiment and establish a timeline for phasing out greyhound racing in the state.
Mayor Hall stated that Wednesday's events, which he described as "carnage," occurred on a dry track. He noted that the Cannington track is considered by some to be the most deadly greyhound track in Australia, located within his city. Hall emphasized the need to align with community expectations regarding the sport.
Industry Response and Ongoing Reviews
Racing and Wagering WA (RWWA) issued a statement confirming that track-side veterinarians and stewards provided care to the injured greyhounds.
RWWA officials are conducting a comprehensive review of the incidents and assessing data before resuming racing or trialing at Cannington.
The organization also expressed sympathy to those involved and reiterated its commitment to animal welfare. The Cannington track had been temporarily closed earlier in 2024 for maintenance and a reported $3 million safety upgrade.
Separately, the WA Government announced an independent review of the state's racing industry in December. This review aims to improve governance and sustainability, ensuring the long-term financial stability, viability, and integrity of an industry that the government states generates $1.3 billion annually for the state's economy.
Broader Context and Advocacy for an End to Racing
Data from the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds indicates 119 greyhound deaths on Australian tracks last year, with Cannington and Mandurah tracks in WA each recording 10 deaths.
A parliamentary inquiry into the industry is currently underway, initiated by a petition with over 26,000 signatures advocating for the industry's phase-out.
Mel Harrison, president of Free The Hounds, an advocacy group, stated that Australia has more greyhound racetracks than the rest of the world combined and has consistently called for an end to greyhound racing.
Harrison criticized claims from the industry and its supporters regarding greyhound welfare, arguing for greater transparency and independent oversight.
An RWWA spokesperson reiterated that animal welfare is Racing WA's highest priority.