Transcript of media conference with Kristie Johnston, independent MHA for Clark, Parliament Lawns, Hobart, 8 March 2024.
Kristie Johnston
It is a disgusting and cynical move by Tasracing, harness racing and greyhound racing to use Bluey and Bingo – two much-loved children’s icons of television – to promote their good Friday dual code race meet.
It is disgusting that they have used unauthorised Bluey and Bingo, the characters that are loved by children, to try and entice young people and their families to racing. It is promotion of gambling to young people and arguably in breach of the Responsible Gambling code of practice. But it also encourages young people to participate in an incredibly cruel and inhumane industry. Your
Journalist – Elliott
You’re a parent, how would you manage the situation with your kids if they saw that and said ‘I want to go’?
Kristie Johnston
It is absolutely disgusting that Tasracing do this unauthorised. Bluey and Bingo are loved by children right around the world. They are using these two creatures, these dog creatures and characters, to promote their cruel and inhumane industry. It must be prompting parents right around Tasmania to have conversations about hopefully the harm caused by gambling and also the harm caused by dog racing and also by harness racing.
Tasmanian Times
If Bluey happens to fall over on the night and break a leg, will someone from Tasracing shoot him?
Kristie Johnston
It certainly does prompt the issue and highlight the issue and the danger around greyhound racing. We know that greyhound racing is inherently dangerous and there’s a high risk that dogs racing on Good Friday will be injured and potentially killed on track. Now will that occur in full front frontage and full view of Bluey, a much loved dog by 1000s and millions of children around the world?
I know and I understand that the creators of Bluey and Bingo are disgusted that this has been used unauthorised and I call on them to act swiftly to ensure that Bluey and Bingo’s good name is not tarnished by this incredibly cruel and inhumane industry.
Journalist – Elliott
So just to clarify, you sought advice from the creators of Bluey?
Kristie Johnston
There have been many Tasmanians, including myself, who have written to the creators of Bluey and expressed our concerns. My understanding is they have advised that Bluey and Bingo’s use by Tasacing and the harness racing clubs and greyhound racing clubs is unauthorised and they will be taking action to protect their brand.
