Greyhound racing to return in Bundaberg

Racing Minister Tim Mander has announced the redevelopment of the Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club will secure its long-term future. 

Meetings have not been conducted on Bundaberg’s current two-turn grass track since September 2024, with Racing Queensland previously citing the unsuitability of racing on a circular grass surface.

The redevelopment will see the racing surface converted to sand, with RQ and the BGRC to finalise the scope of works, including stakeholder consultation before the appointment of contractor. 

Minister Mander said the project is to be funded through the Racing Infrastructure Fund and would provide much needed certainty for greyhound participants in the Wide Bay.

“We have listened to greyhound participants, and we will deliver what Labor could not,” Minister Mander said.   

“The Crisafulli Government has made clear its commitment to country racing and that includes providing a future for the Bundaberg Greyhound Racing Club.

“The replacement of the track will ensure for a more consistent racing surface, which has advantages for both safety and track maintenance.

“We are currently delivering the most comprehensive review of the industry in more than 25 years as we look to continue supporting the long-term success of racing right across Queensland.” 

The proposed sand track conversion was initially expected to form a part of the State Government’s review into Queensland’s racing industry; however, the decision has been brought forward to provide more certainty for the region’s greyhound industry. 

Greyhound racing continues to make significant strides in Queensland, headlined by the world-class The Q facility, which will be officially opened on June 7.

“The Bundaberg sand track conversion is a welcomed announcement from Racing Minister Tim Mander, and we thank him and the Crisafulli Government for their unwavering support in the greyhound code and racing more broadly,” Acting RQ Chair Jane Seawright said. 

“The Club typically hosts more than 40 meetings a year, whilst supporting around 500 greyhound participants in the region.

“Importantly, these works will ensure Bundaberg can accommodate additional racing and trialing for an industry that continues its upward trajectory in the region.” 

In recent years, the BGRC has also taken receipt of a number of infrastructure and asset upgrades, including a new judges’ and broadcast tower, as well as a new rail and lure system, catching pen, and the installation of new sectional timing system.

Whilst construction takes place, Bundaberg trainers will continue to receive a $120 travel subsidy per travelling trainer, while additional race meetings have been programmed for Rockhampton.