State of Origin Greyhounds Returns: Can Queensland Avenge Last Year’s Whitewash?

The State of Origin for greyhounds is back — and it’s bigger than ever. In a thrilling twist for 2025, the series will debut at The Q, Queensland’s world-class racing facility, marking the first time the event has been staged away from Albion Park. With a fresh setting and a fierce rivalry, anticipation is sky-high as the best canine athletes from NSW and QLD go muzzle to muzzle once again.

This year’s Origin showdown will feature three marquee events: the Sprint, the Distance, and the Match Race. Each contest will pit elite greyhounds from both states in a battle of speed, stamina, and sheer determination. With pride, bragging rights, and state supremacy on the line, the pressure is palpable.

Last year, NSW delivered a brutal clean sweep — 3–0 — crushing Queensland on their home turf in front of a stunned Brisbane crowd. That dominant performance has cast a long shadow over the Maroons, who enter 2025 with a point to prove. Queensland’s trainers and fans are fired up, vowing not to let history repeat itself.

But if there’s one person unfazed by the hype, it’s Benny Elias — the newly appointed coach of the NSW greyhound team. Making his debut at the helm, Elias is exuding quiet confidence ahead of the event.

“We have this in the bag,” Elias told this masthead.
“Queensland doesn’t have a chance against NSW.”

Elias brings with him a wealth of racing knowledge and a sharp tactical edge. His squad is stacked with raw talent and proven champions, and his bold remarks suggest he’s not interested in merely defending the title — he wants to dominate.

However, Queensland aren’t going down without a fight. Maroons captain Ben Hannant has publicly questioned Elias’s experience and issued a firm warning.

“He might be confident, but confidence doesn’t win races — experience does,” Hannant said.
“I’ve captained this team for years. Last year was an anomaly. If Elias is underestimating Queensland, he’s in for a shock.”

Queensland’s campaign has been fuelled by the sting of last year’s shutout, and with home-ground advantage at The Q, they’re hoping for redemption in front of a passionate local crowd.

Will NSW continue their reign of dominance under Benny Elias, or will the Maroons stage the comeback of the decade? With high stakes, personal rivalries, and top-tier racing talent, the 2025 Greyhound State of Origin promises nothing short of fireworks.

See it live at The Q on 12 June 2025 — 70 Ipswich Boonah Road, take the Yomanto exit off the Cunningham Highway, turn left at the lights.

Let the chase begin.