Lithgow track reopens, sparking controversy over Greyhound racing

“It is a great achievement to finally be here,” stated Nick Santucci, from Greyhound Racing New South Wales. The reopening comes as other prominent Sydney tracks, including Wentworth Park (scheduled for conversion into sports fields and parkland) and Dapto Dogs (closed after 90 years) have ceased operations. Santucci emphasized the importance of the Lithgow track for the industry’s sustainability, stating, “It is on us … to make sure we have the facilities to keep a sustainable future for greyhound racing.”

Animal welfare advocates have strongly condemned the track’s return, calling it a “disaster.” Kylie Field, NSW director of the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds, expressed concerns about the community’s priorities and the potential for animal harm. A 2025 government inquiry recommended a shift away from curved tracks like Lithgow’s, citing safety concerns. “It is incredibly dangerous for greyhounds to race on,” Field said, adding, “We know that there will be dogs killed at this track.”

According to the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission, over 1,000 greyhounds died during the 2025/26 financial year due to age, illness, injuries, or on-track collisions. The Lithgow track, Australia’s oldest, first hosted races in 1901. While acknowledging the preference for straight tracks, Santucci explained that the Lithgow site’s layout makes that impractical. He maintained that the widened track is “one of the safest you can get outside of having a straight track.” The mechanical lure has also been extended to 2.5 meters to increase spacing between dogs during races.

The New South Wales government recently announced a $10 million grant program to ensure all race tracks meet minimum animal safety standards. The track’s closure in 2022, alongside a similar shutdown at Bathurst Greyhounds, had previously forced breeders to travel long distances. Lithgow Greyhound Club president Sydney Swain noted that some were considering leaving the sport entirely. The reopening has already spurred renewed breeding activity. Isabella Turner, a teenage breeder, expressed optimism, stating, “It is great having another track here and hopefully encourages more people to come.”