The Groundz Achieves Registered Charity Status

Dapto Agricultural & Horticultural Society Ltd, proudly operating The Groundz precinct, has officially been registered as a charity with the Australian Charities and Not for profits Commission (ACNC).

The milestone marks a significant step forward for the historic community precinct as it continues evolving beyond greyhound racing into a broader community, hospitality, entertainment and events destination for the Illawarra.

CEO Katrina Novak said the registration formally recognises the important community role The Groundz has played for generations.

“This recognition reflects what so many people in the community already know — The Groundz is much more than a venue. It is a place that brings people together,” Ms Novak said.

“As a privately owned showground precinct, we continue reinvesting back into the site to create experiences, opportunities and facilities that benefit the wider community.”

The Groundz currently supports a wide range of community groups, sporting organisations, markets, live music events, cultural activities and charitable initiatives across the Illawarra.

The charity registration also strengthens future opportunities for community partnerships, grant funding and continued investment into the precinct’s growth and long term sustainability.

The announcement comes during a transformative period for the precinct following the conclusion of greyhound racing operations in 2025, with several new projects and activations already underway across the site.

“This is only the beginning,” Ms Novak said.

“We are incredibly excited about the future of The Groundz and what this means for our community.”