The Potbelleez pull out of greyhound race gig after backlash

Sydney band The Potbelleez have received an outpouring of support on Facebook following their decision to cancel their performance at the world’s richest greyhound race.

The Potbelleez have axed their performance at the Million Dollar Chase.

• Protest
• Deaths continue

Sydney band The Potbelleez have received an outpouring of support on Facebook following their decision to cancel their performance at the world’s richest greyhound race.

The group temporarily disabled their Facebook account after being inundated with criticism from animal lovers and fans when it was announced they would headline the grand final of the Million Dollar Chase at Wentworth Park.

But last night they reactivated their account to confirm: “The Potbelleez will no longer be performing at the Million Dollar Chase in Sydney on October 20th”.

Julia Anne Cockram posted this picture of her pup Henry in support of the band’s decision.

The post attracted more than 300 comments, many from greyhound owners who posted pictures of their rescued hounds and messages of heartfelt thanks.

Kylie Field posted: “This beautiful precious girl and our family say thank you. There are cheers of gratitude in our home tonight. This darling girl of ours was subjected to horrendous abuse and discarded when she no longer made money. Peace and love to you all.”

Greyhound owners have thrown their support behind The Potbelleez.

Julia Anne Cockram wrote: “Thank you from Henry— the grey the industry thinks should be killed as unsuitable for rehoming - as a bit timid.”

“Our rescue greyhound who came to us with an old, poorly treated injury is now your number one fan,” wrote Rochelle Schmidt.

Many posts recognised that injuries and deaths of greyhounds had not slowed down since the spotlight was placed on the industry.

Greyhound deaths have not slowed down following the industry’s promise to clean up its act.

The State Government has continued to pour money into the industry despite former Premier Mike Baird moving to ban the sport due to evidence of systemic animal cruelty.

More than 55,000 people have signed the petition opposing the expenditure of $500,000 on the race and calling on the Government to ban greyhound racing.

A protest is planned at Wentworth Park from 5pm to 7pm on October 20.

Greyhound Racing NSW and The Potbelleez were contacted for comment.