About Us

About The Club

The Warrnambool Greyhound Racing Club, located at 331 Koroit Street, Warrnambool, Victoria, is a central hub for greyhound racing enthusiasts. Established on July 27, 1978, the club hosts regular race meetings, primarily on Monday afternoons and Thursday evenings, with free entry for attendees.

The club's origins date back to the 1920s, and in 1978, it moved to its current home at the Warrnambool Showgrounds. Over the years, it has become a cornerstone of Victoria’s greyhound racing scene, hosting the prestigious Group 2 Warrnambool Cup—a highlight on the racing calendar that attracts top greyhounds and trainers from across Australia.

Beyond racing, the club has been a training ground for some of the state’s most reputable trainers and has produced many of Australia’s finest greyhounds. It remains deeply embedded in the local community, not only as a sporting venue but also as a host for over 150 community events annually.

With over 100 race days per year, the Warrnambool Greyhound Racing Club is a key contributor to the region, supporting 756 participants from Warrnambool and the South West, generating 114 full-time equivalent jobs, and contributing $14.5 million to the local economy.

The club also offers modern, comfortable, and versatile facilities for a variety of events, including weddings, engagements, birthdays, exhibitions, conferences, and conventions.

Membership Packages

$35 Club Member

(INCLUDING GST)

Becoming a member of Warrnambool Greyhound racing Club isn’t just about joining a group—it’s about becoming part of a passionate community dedicated to Greyhound Racing. Support the club that supports you.

Membership Benefits

Benefits of Membership

🔹 Be Part of a Community – Connect with friendly individuals who share your interests.

🔹 Make a Difference – Your involvement helps our club grow and thrive, ensuring we can continue offering activities, services and support.

🔹 Exclusive Perks – Enjoy member-only benefits such as discounted room hire, invitation to our annual awards night and meal vouchers in the month of your birthday.

🔹 Have Your Say – As a member, you have a voice in club decisions, helping to shape its future.

🔹 Recognition & Appreciation – We value our members and regularly acknowledge their contributions through awards, shoutouts, and special events.

Complete your membership form

History

1920s - The Beginning of Speed Coursing

During the late 1920s, a new form of Greyhound Racing known as “Speed Coursing” gained popularity, replacing the traditional two-dog “Plumpton Coursing” format. Early races were held on small tracks around Warrnambool, including a 300-yard grass straight track at Bushfield, about 8km from town.

1931 - A New Track at Christian Brothers College

A semi-circular track was developed near the Christian Brothers College on Warrnambool’s outskirts. Around the same time, a track at Wangoom was also established under the Warrnambool Plumpton Club.

1936 - The Whiteway Track Opens

A new track opened on low ground at the corner of Botanic and Queens Roads. Known as “Whiteway,” this 300-yard grass track was one of the few in the state with power-driven illumination, enabling night racing. Opening night drew 1,200 spectators, entertained by a brass band, gala tents, and a 10-race program.  This area is where St Josephs Primary School is located today.

1937 - Introduction of a Circular Track

The club innovated again, constructing a circular 388-yard horseshoe-shaped track. It featured a thrilling “dead-end” catching pen that added excitement for spectators.

1939–1945 - Impact of World War II

World War II brought restrictions, including a ban on night racing and periods of complete cancellation due to petrol and resource shortages. Racing resumed at night in 1945, but public interest was slow to recover.

1946 - Devastating Flood

Severe floods inundated the Whiteway track, causing significant damage to facilities. Volunteers repaired the track, and racing resumed in 1947.

1950s - Tough Times and Innovation

Public support waned in the 1950s, with field sizes and attendance hitting all-time lows. Fundraising efforts and promotional events, including foot races, helped keep the club afloat. The lighting system was upgraded in 1950.

1973 - Club Becomes Landowners

The club secured ownership of the Botanic Park land, providing stability. However, by 1976, the facilities required costly upgrades, leading to the decision to relocate.

1978 - A New Era at the Showgrounds

On July 27, 1978, the club opened its new $290,000 facility at the Warrnambool Showgrounds. The move was celebrated with large crowds, but financial challenges soon arose due to low betting odds and reduced attendance.

1982 - A Turning Point

New leadership revitalised the club with cost-cutting measures, sponsorship drives, and facility improvements. Initiatives like video replays and enclosure upgrades aimed to attract patrons.

1983 - Hurdle Racing Introduced

Hurdle racing became a major attraction. Local trainers were recruited to train jumpers, and the format brought patrons back to the track.

1985 - First TAB Meetings

After lobbying, the club hosted its first TAB meetings in April 1985. The success of these events helped secure the club’s future, leading to full TAB status in 1989 and Wednesday night racing.

1991 - Launch of the Warrnambool Classic

The club introduced the prestigious Warrnambool Classic, offering a $50,000 prize. It quickly became Australia’s premier aged greyhound event.

2000s - Modern Developments`

Significant upgrades, including a new kennel block in 2002 and a modern function centre, cemented the club’s reputation as one of Australia’s top greyhound racing venues.

2010s

The club again with government and Greyhound Racing Victoria Support reinvested in the showgrounds facility, building a new, state of the art Judges and stewards tower and refurbished the already large function centre.  Helping to continue the clubs reputation as both a leader in race day facilities but also a great venue for the local community to enjoy.

Today - A Legacy of Success

The Warrnambool Greyhound Racing Club stands as one of the most successful in Australia, thanks to decades of innovation, resilience, and dedication from its community.

Community Engagement

Hosting over 150 community events each year, the Warrnambool Greyhound Racing Club is deeply committed to community engagement. This commitment is exemplified by events like the Warrnambool Great Chase Community Day, which provides community groups—including those supporting the elderly and individuals with special needs—an opportunity to raise funds and enjoy a day at the races. For the past 21 years, the club has proudly hosted the Great Chase, attracting the best young greyhounds in the state while offering a social outlet and fundraising support for people with intellectual or physical disabilities.

Another highlight is our Annual Seaside Festival, a five-day free event that brings the community and visitors together for an exciting night of greyhound racing. Featuring entertainment, games, and activities for the whole family, the festival has been a summer tradition in Warrnambool for over 30 years.

Beyond racing, the club plays a vital role in hosting major community events, including pool tournaments, the Warrnambool Show, Koori Karnival, Neil Porter Legacy Careers Day, and more than a dozen South West regional executive forums.

The Club is regularly used by both business and private hires for all types of events, from weddings and birthdays, to first aid courses and business training days.

Our club is more than just a racing venue—it’s a hub for community connection, entertainment, and support.

Online Membership Form

Memberships are available at the Club for a super low price of $35. This includes invitation to our annual awards night, meal voucher in the month of your birthday & discounted room hire.

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Resources & Policies

Club Policy - Code of Conduct

Club Policy - Club Grievance Process

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