International Women’s Day is the perfect time to acknowledge and honour women who work tirelessly to improve the greyhound racing industry and animal welfare.
Former Greyhound Clubs Victoria CEO Brett Jones has reiterated how thrilled the sport is to have a female chairperson at the Melbourne Greyhound Racing Association (MGRA).
“Barbara’s appointment as the first woman Chair of a metropolitan Greyhound Racing Club, combined with Greyhound Racing Victoria’s Chair, Peita Duncan, underpins the strength of female leaders in senior governance positions in sport,” Mr Jones said.
Dr Backhoy said, “There is so much more women can do to help the greyhound industry be the best it can be. And, on International Women’s Day, there’s no better time to show that women administrators and staff, can make a difference.”
Mr Jones, added “Barbara is a fantastic appointment as Chair. She has a passion for the welfare of racing greyhounds and firsthand experience after working as an on-track greyhound veterinarian since 2002 and as an owner of her own veterinary clinic.”
Expressing her appreciation Dr Backhoy said, “I’ve been in the industry for a long time, and this is a great honour. I’m looking forward to bringing my love of greyhounds to a wider audience.”
Dr Backhoy has had a special relationship with greyhounds. Her parents were trainers, so she spent many years playing with the puppies.
“I had my first dog when I was about 12 years old and did pretty much all the training with her myself.”
Regular veterinary trips with the dogs, lead her to a career as a vet. It also sparked an intense interest in the welfare and well-being of greyhounds.
“They are a wonderful animal, a great pet, and they actually do love to run. I want to do everything I can to ensure every greyhound is cared for, safely trained and raced and finds a good home in retirement,” she said.
Article courtesy Greyhound Clubs Victoria
