Darwin Greyhound Association to receive funding from NT Government after Tabcorp pulls TV coverage

BACKING the future of greyhound racing in the Top End at Winnellie Park is a sure bet.

Greyhound racing will be moving back to Friday nights. Lacey Scott (4) and and trainer Richard Carr with greyhound trained by Graeme Scott - Sum Ting Wong.

BACKING the future of greyhound racing in the Top End at Winnellie Park is a sure bet.

The national and international television broadcast of races from the Top End has been switched off, but the Minister for Racing and Gaming Peter Styles said Sky Racing’s decision will not threat the club’s viability.

Darwin Greyhound Association (DGA) manager Greg Aldam revealed last week in NT News that Tabcorp (operator of Sky Racing) had advised the races would no longer be broadcast.

The club moved the meets to Friday nights from Sunday to raise revenue through attendances.

Mr Styles told NT News the NT Government would continue to support the greyhound industry.

“In relation to the racing (portfolio), it (greyhounds) is part of the racing package,” he said.

“There is a whole industry there that keeps a lot of people in work.

“The government will support dog racing in the Territory.

“I think we have supported it in this financial year to the tune of $685,000.”

The DGA will lose a portion of the wagering pool due to the lack of broadcast — races will still be heard on local radio — but the club and Mr Styles are confident it can bridge the gap with on-track revenue by returning to Friday evening races.

“We are still negotiating with the successful tender for the totaliser license (UBET) and we haven’t determined how much they’re going to contribute towards greyhound racing and horse racing,” Mr Styles said.

“On Friday nights, the place is pretty well full.

“They serve meals, families and they're all out here enjoying their sport — dog racing.”

The current contract between NTG and the DGA ends in August next year but Mr Styles said the government would renew the contract.

Mr Styles said greyhounds could operate without taxpayer backing, if the negotiated contribution from UBET covers costs.

The minister couldn’t confirm how long negotiations with UBET for kickbacks to local racing may take.

“What I will say is it will take as long as it does to get a fair outcome for all parties concerned,” Mr Styles said.

DGA will hold its first Friday meeting this week with an eight-race program at Winnellie Park.