WAGGA City councillors will decide next Monday whether to write to the state government disavowing the greyhound ban in a last-ditch bid to stop the prohibition from taking place.
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It comes as legislation banning the sport passed in the state’s legislative assembly on Wednesday, despite three Nationals MPs which included Katrina Hodgkinson crossing the floor.
In July Mr Baird unveiled plans to ban the sport, citing evidence of live baiting and animal cruelty.
But Councillor Paul Funnell, who has proposed the letter, said council must stand up and oppose the state government on an issue which will hurt the community.
He put forward the idea after being approached by members of the greyhound industry who were concerned about the mental health and loss of income racing families would face.
“We are the largest inland city in NSW, we represent a large area of regional NSW,” Cr Funnell said.
“It might just trigger something, and if all that fails it will certainly put on the record our decision making process.”
Wagga greyhound owner and trainer of 42 years Peter Ward said he welcomes the letter as he was sick of being branded a criminal.
“Any decision like that is going to help, we’re sick of being labeled as criminals,” he said.
“These 42 years I am guilty of nothing.”
Trainer Kirsten Oakman, who comes from a long line of greyhound owners, said the letter offered a glimmer of hope for her family. “My family is quite concerned and worried,” she said.
