GWIC is excited to announce a new permit for a Junior Associate Attendant, allowing 12- and 13-year-olds to start playing an active role in the industry.

GWIC Chief Executive Officer, Steve Griffin, said the new role will be an important introduction into the industry for young people.

“The Junior Associate Attendant permit allows 12- and 13-year-olds to participate in trials at registered tracks as the greyhound catcher,” Mr Griffin said.

“We know that lots of young people assist their families at home with greyhound husbandry and we are keen to see them get involved at the track as well.”

“The industry is currently looking at ways to promote the sport to our younger generations, and we are pleased to support this initiative.”

The Junior Associate Attendant permit will require sign off by a parent or guardian, and a nominated industry participant to supervise them when they are performing their role.

“In 2021, we introduced the Associate Attendant registration which allows for 14 – 18-year-olds to perform a number of roles at the track in an attendant or race official capacity,” Mr Griffin said.

“It is our hope that our juniors will then move into these roles as they get older, and the industry develops a young cohort of experienced and passionate participants with a strong understanding of welfare and integrity.”

NSW GBOTA Membership & Advocacy Manager, Kristy Harper, said she is very excited for the many young people who are keen to get involved in the industry.

“We are really pleased to see the development of pathways which encourage and support young people to join our industry.”

Information on how to apply for a Junior Associate Attendant permit will be available on the GWIC website from next week.