Greyhound racing
Georgie PURCELL (Northern Victoria) (12:11): (424) My question is for the Minister for Racing in the other place. A Victorian greyhound recently died after having their barking muzzle left on in the scorching heat. The death is presumed to have occurred from either asphyxiation or dehydration. Greyhound Racing Victoria allegedly told the Kilmore-based trainer to take a photo and just drop the dog off at the vet for disposal. I only know of this death from whistleblowers, not from the industry being transparent. Can the minister confirm the details of this death and if an autopsy was undertaken?
Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (12:11): I thank Ms Purcell for her question and her interest in the greyhound racing sector. I know we have had an opportunity to visit one of the facilities where we have a partnership – a greyhound program. I know you have been out there as well, and I thank you for your long-term passion and interest in these matters. I will pass that on to the Minister for Racing in the other place, and I am sure he will be able to respond to those questions as appropriate.
Georgie PURCELL (Northern Victoria) (12:12): Thank you, Minister, for referring that on. Victoria is already second in the country for on-track greyhound deaths, and almost 400 greyhounds have been injured on Victorian racetracks since the beginning of this year. While we know Victoria is leading in serious on-track greyhound injuries and deaths, little is truly known about incidents off the track like this one. Can the minister advise how many dogs have been reported dead due to natural causes, accidents, so-called ‘misadventure’ or any other reason in the last year and how many underwent autopsies to determine the cause of their death?
Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (12:12): I thank Ms Purcell for her supplementary question and her interest in the greyhound industry. I will pass that on to the Minister for Racing in the other place, and I will seek a response in line with the standing orders.