Appointed by the NSW Government last month as the head of the Greyhounds Transition Taskforce, Dr Keniry is touring the state to meet with those who will be impacted by recently-legislated ban on racing.

Last month, legislation was passed in NSW Parliament that will ban greyhound racing across the state from July 1, 2017.

Dr Keniry has been tasked by the NSW Government to create a transition package for the greyhound industry which will include a raft of measures such as financial assistance.

On his first visit to Bathurst, Dr Keniry heard from 30 people, involved directly and indirectly in the industry, who are concerned about the ban and what it will mean for them.

Bathurst Greyhound Racing Club track manager Jason Lyne said trainers, breeders, rearers, owners and industry employees from Bathurst and across the Central West attended the forum.

“They’re just frustrated with the whole process and worried whether it will actually mean anything,” he said of Dr Keniry’s visit.

“They just want to continue racing, they can’t understand why other racing industries can continues.”

Mr Lyne said the main concern of those who attended was the welfare of the dogs, especially some people who can have up to 50 dogs.

“How are people going to afford to keep the dogs, especially if they can’t race them,” he said.

Dr Keniry said some people at the Bathurst forum asked if training and breeding could be extended beyond June 30, 2017.

“That’s a matter that’s under consideration,” he said.

Dr Keniry said the taskforce has already recognised that there could be some mental health issues following the announcement of the ban.

“There will be some serious impacts on people’s lifestyles,” he said.

“Our job as a taskforce is to talk to them and find out what the consequences for them will be and then try and put together a package.

“The taskforce has now set up a dedicated phone line run by trained counsellors to answer questions about the transition, and provide free confidential counselling for people feeling distressed about the closure.”

To seek help and advice, call 1800 812 115.

Mr Lyne said he was hopeful Dr Keniry will listen to feedback provided at the Bathurst forum by greyhound racing insiders and take it into careful consideration when planning the transition package.

To add your feedback to the transition package being planned visit www.racing.justice.nsw.gov.au to complete a short online survey.