01 April 2010 Outcome of Ethyloestrenol Review

OUTCOME OF ETHYLOESTRENOL REVIEW

Greyhounds Australasia (GA) advises that it has conducted its review of the racing rule, which allows oral
administration of ethyloestrenol for the female racing greyhound, on the basis that it is prescribed by a
registered veterinarian, for the sole purpose of regulating or preventing oestrus.

The GA Board acknowledges and thanks industry participants, veterinarians, racing analysts and a like, that
took the time to provide a submission to the review.

After taking account all of the information that had been received and assessing this against the terms of
reference, the GA Board RESOLVED at its 12 March 2010 Board meeting that:

• The existing rule which only allows ethyloestrenol for female racing greyhounds is to remain unchanged.

The Board highlights that this decision was based on the following:

• GA’s position remains the same; that it is preferable that racing greyhounds are to be free of prohibited
  substances, in this case anabolic steroids.
• Based on jurisdictional data it was concluded that:
  • The rule change has not impacted significantly on the number of bitches that raced during the period
    under review. During the period 1/7/08 to 30/6/09 44.03% of runners were bitches compared with
    44.67% during the period 1/7/07 to 30/6/08. An overall decrease nationally of .64%
  • The rule has not significantly affected the percentage of bitches that won a race during the period
    under review. During the period 1/7/08 to 30/6/09 41.37% of bitches won a race compared with 41.83%
    during the period 1/7/07 to 30/6/08. An overall decrease nationally of .46%
• The low number of participant responses (i.e. less than .001% of registered participants) made validation
  and any potential alteration to the current rule extremely difficult for the Board.
• The review indicated that ethyloestrenol has had a minimal impact on breeding; as well bred greyhounds
  will always be in demand and sell well. It was however noted that some professional trainers are becoming
  selective in training bitches.
• The long term supply of ethyloestrenol seems relatively stable.

Mr Russell Ware, GA Chairman said:

“The decision of the Board regarding ethyloestrenol was an extremely difficult one.”

“Views on the subject are divided and judgment differs between participants and experts. This was highlighted
in the questionnaires and independent opinion received where 10 alternative oestrus suppression products
were recommended. Australasia is not alone with this dilemma as Britain is facing a similar problem.”

In making its determination, the GA Board acknowledged and agreed that:

• There was sufficient information in the review to suggest that further investigation is required into the
  complicated matter of oestrus control in the female racing greyhound.
• Concerns raised by only allowing one suppressant product was taken into consideration and as a result a
  GA Committee consisting of Australian Greyhound Veterinary Association members, breeders, trainers
  and some GA representatives will be formed to:
  • Seek full registration of an ethyloestrenol oestrus prevention medication with the Australian
    Pesticides and Veterinary Medicine Authority including undertaking some research; and
  • The Committee to suggest further research to the GA Board which may allow it to be in a
    position to consider an alternative oestrus control product.
• The GA CEO will continue to work closely with the Greyhound Board of Great Britain and asses if any
  collaborative research could be undertaken in respect of oestrus suppression.
• Industry education is a key to assist with the future management of racing bitches, and during 2010 GA
  members have committed to providing information on this topic at industry based forums.

For any inquiries please contact.

CRAIG TABERNER
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
PH: 03 9548 3500

About Greyhounds Australasia (GA)

Greyhounds Australasia (GA) comprises representatives from jurisdictional controlling bodies in Australian
States and Territories and New Zealand (the GA Directors).

The charter of GA is to support these jurisdictions via encouragement of a holistic approach to the
Australasian greyhound racing industry creating uniformity with the brand.

GA provides its stakeholders with value-added services and industry practices that support industry integrity,
maximize returns and ensures a sustainable future.

By virtue of the state/federal political system, individual jurisdictional controlling bodies control the regulation
and governance of racing, clubs and the functions and commercial activities of greyhound racing under a local
Racing Act of Parliament or like legislation.

Thus while all jurisdictions are represented on the GA Board, in general, the ultimate determination to either
accept or reject a GA recommendation is a decision for the individual jurisdiction. An exception occurs when a
GA Board resolution is passed by a certain majority as a “Compulsive Resolution”, in which case the resolution
is binding on all GA member bodies.