DOG lovers and their talented pooches are set for another successful year with the Blue Lake Obedience Dog Club thanks to a generous donation from the Mount Gambier and District Community Bank.
Receiving $1000 from the local branch, the donation will help the club run a successful Easter trial – which is expected to attract hundreds of competitors from across the country – in the coming months.
Eager to continue its sponsorship, branch manager Tracey Koop commended the club for its community contribution and involvement.
“To be able to assist in any way, keep this club running and help it to be competitive and to the same level as others is a pleasure,” she said.
“The club is all about community and it is lovely to come out here and see everyone from all walks of life interacting.”
Thankful for the donation, which will be put towards equipment for the upcoming event, trial manager Karen Brooksby said the money will go a long way.
“It is fantastic to have the bank as a sponsor again, to receive this donation in the lead up to the trial will be a massive help,” she said.
Attracting hundreds of people from across the country for their Easter trial, club president Jan Hellyer said it will be a busy few weeks for the dedicated members in the lead up to the event.
“We are the only club that incorporates three disciplines of agility, obedience and rally on one day,” she said.
“This year we also have an extra half day on Easter Monday for agility games, which is something we have never included in the Easter trial.
“They were a big success at our October event and everyone had a lot of fun taking part in them.”
This weekend the club will also host a mock trial for those already trialling or people who would like to begin learning.
“When you do compete, you and your dogs’ nerves are always higher than normal, so it is beneficial to practice during our mock trial to prepare yourself,” Ms Brooksby said.
“It is free and we invite anyone to come along – usually we even see people from Portland and Warrnambool here.”
The Easter trials are also free of charge with full catering available over the weekend.
The mock trial will take place at Hastings Cunningham Reserve this Saturday from 10am.
Visit www.k9entries.com for more information and to register for the Easter trial.
