The Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission (the Commission) has handed down a life-time disqualification to greyhound trainer, Sam Masri, following the discovery of live animals capable of being used as a lure, being kept in cages at his property on the Central Coast.

The Commission seized rabbits, possums and other items of interest during a targeted kennel inspection on 7 October 2022 and immediately disqualified Mr Masri pending further enquiries.

The investigation was brought to a close on 30 November 2022, with the Commission finding Mr Masri in breach of Rules 159(1) and 164(a) which relate to the possession of animals that are capable of being used a lure and making false statements to the controlling body.

The Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, Steve Griffin, said that the seriousness of Mr Masri’s actions are reflected in his penalty.

“It is very disappointing for the entire industry that some still think that live baiting is okay. The industry has a zero tolerance for any conduct relating to live baiting as it is not only a disgraceful breach of animal welfare but also serves to undermine the integrity of the sport and damage the reputation of the industry and the majority of hard-working participants.”

Under the Greyhound Racing Rules, individuals found in breach of baiting offences can face a lifetime ban from the sport as well as terms of imprisonment under the Protection of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979.

“NSW has some of the strongest welfare standards in the industry, and we will utilise all our legislative powers to ensure appropriate action is taken against anyone who thinks they can get away with this type of conduct.”

Chief Executive Officer of Greyhound Racing NSW, Mr Rob Macaulay said, “There is an industry-wide zero tolerance to any incidents of this nature, which is fully supported by Greyhound Racing NSW. We applaud GWIC for detecting and investigating this incident, and GRNSW fully supports any penalties handed down to those found to have engaged in such abhorrent actions.”

Mr Masri has been notified of his right to appeal the Commission’s decision.

Contact: media@gwic.nsw.gov.au | 0448 193 270