The $4.6 million major redevelopment to the Grafton Greyhound Racing complex, track and kennels, one of the most significant track infrastructure funding announcements in New South Wales history, is scheduled to begin in July 2020.
Given the timing and the status of the time honoured Grafton Greyhound Racing Canrival, which will take place across the end of June to the beginning of July this year, and the economic benefits it brings to the region, GRNSW and the club have made a decision to continue with the tradition.
Work on the new track and infrastructure will take place immediately after the carnival has finished.
Among the work to be conducted is a new racetrack, designed in consultation with safety engineers at the University of Technology, with a larger footprint to ensure it exceeds the most stringent track safety requirements, new racing infrastructure including starting boxes, safety rails and lures, all incorporating the latest racing technology.
There will be an upgraded irrigation system, a major venue enhancement to improve comfort for members and spectators including enhanced track lighting, access paths and landscaping, and a brand new kennel building that incorporates an animal welfare facility, a blueprint for a model which is planned to roll-out to other key regional venues going forward.
A full racing program for the carnival will be available in the near future.
