The planned closure of greyhound racing tracks in Broken Hill and Coonamble by June 2026 has prompted concerns from local representatives about the impact on regional communities.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler has raised the issue with the NSW Parliament, highlighting worries within the greyhound racing community about the process behind the closures.

"I am seriously concerned about the future of greyhound racing in our regional areas," Mr Butler said.

"Broken Hill Greyhounds Club has been told to close by June 2026, and Coonamble is in the same boat. These are the only two greyhound tracks left in Barwon." *

Mr Butler said there was growing unease about how Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) had handled the closure announcements.

"There is a strong sense in the greyhound racing community that a deliberate strategy is underway to phase out country meets, with little transparency or consultation with those directly impacted," he said.

The closures are expected to affect more than just the racing industry, with flow-on effects anticipated for local businesses and community cohesion.

"There is a ripple effect that track closures cause in regional, rural and remote communities," Mr Butler said.

"Local businesses, including food vendors, electricians, and veterinary services, to name a few, will lose vital income, and there are fewer opportunities for the community to come together."

Mr Butler was critical of how the governing body had managed the process, describing it as disconnected from regional stakeholders.

"The way in which GRNSW has undertaken this process is disappointing and detached from the communities it is supposed to represent," he said.

The local MP indicated he would raise the matter with colleagues and the state government.

"I will take this up with my crossbench colleagues and the Minister for Racing," Mr Butler said.

GRNSW has not yet responded to requests for comment on the closures or the consultation process undertaken with affected communities.

The closures come amid ongoing debate about the future of greyhound racing in NSW, with the industry facing scrutiny over animal welfare standards while also serving as an important social and economic fixture in many regional towns.