Entries open for RQ Greyhound Sweepstakes

Entries for the 2026 Racing Queensland Greyhound Sweepstakes are now open, which will showcase greyhounds to the public during the Royal Queensland Show.

The sweepstakes are a fantastic chance for owners, breeders and handlers of pre-racing, racing and retired greyhounds to put their purebreds on display.

Judging will take place on Sunday, August 9 in the Canine Pavilion, and the public is encouraged to walk through the pavilion to acquaint themselves with the greyhounds and their handlers.

Racing Queensland’s General Manager of Greyhound Welfare Michelle Ledger said the event would be a fantastic way to kick start celebrations at the 150^th Ekka.

“The Ekka is a fantastic day out, and a great opportunity to showcase our wonderful breed to the general public,” Dr Ledger said

“We are keen for the public to see the gentle nature and suitability of the racing greyhound as a pet and a friendly breed.

“We encourage both entries from industry and those in public with retired racers to come and have a great day out at the showgrounds, surrounded by wonderful greyhounds, a welcoming community and friendly competition.

“Being the 150^th year for the Ekka, we are keen to have our biggest sweepstakes ever!”

Representatives from the Greyhound Adoption Program will also be on hand to handle any enquiries.

There are seven classes overall, with greyhounds divided by age and sex, with the winners of each class competing for the coveted Best of Breed.

The 2026 Greyhound Sweepstakes will see the addition of a second class for neutered dogs after a record high number of entries last year.

In 2025, trainer Jemma Daley took out Best in Show with Hara’s Bonnie.

The winner of each category will receive between $200 to $555 with their blue ribbon, and exhibitors will again be paid a $100 appearance fee, an incentive that was introduced by Racing Queensland in 2022.

Entries close on Friday, June 19.

Click here to enter.