Greyhound racing is coming back to Cranbourne thanks to a major funding boost from the Carroll Labor Government to upgrade the racetrack and deliver world class facilities and improved safety measures.

Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines and local MP Pauline Richards visited the Cranbourne Greyhound Racing Club today to announce the first race meeting on the newly redeveloped track will be held on Wednesday 25 November 2026.

The Carroll Labor Government invested nearly $4 million in the project through the Victorian Racing Industry Fund, with the club contributing $2 million and Greyhound Racing Victoria $3.5 million.

The upgraded racetrack features the latest safety standards to address the concerns that saw racing suspended at the track in 2022.

The new track boasts a widened track base, an upgraded racing surface, improved lighting and advanced drainage systems – all contributing to safer racing conditions.

The club will also introduce new animal welfare features, including purpose-built holding and viewing pens and modern wash bays – ensuring the health, comfort and care of racing greyhounds.

Cranbourne and the south-east is an important hub for greyhound racing, with the local region home to 200 greyhound trainers – making it the biggest group in Victoria.

Victoria’s greyhound racing industry generates more than $853.9 million in economic benefit each year and helps sustain close to 4,800 full-time equivalent jobs.

Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines: “This upgrade will provide a safe and state-of-the-art venue for trainers, greyhounds and participants. The racing industry plays a vital role in the state’s economy, and our investment will back more jobs.”

Member for Cranbourne Pauline Richards: “This is a fantastic result for the racing community in Cranbourne. Backing the upgrade will boost our local economy – bringing together racing enthusiasts, friends and families for a great night out.”

Cranbourne Greyhound Racing Club CEO Andrew Fennell: “We thank the Victorian Government for its significant investment to upgrade the racetrack. We know the redevelopment will greatly benefit trainers and the safety of greyhounds.”

Chair of Greyhound Racing Victoria Tom Salom: “The Casey region is home to the largest number of greyhound trainers and second highest number of active greyhounds in Victoria and this investment will ensure that greyhound racing at Cranbourne can thrive.”

Article originally written by Damien Ractliffe and published at GRV.org.au.