THE Mount Gambier Showgrounds was full of activity over the weekend as dog lovers flocked to the city for the Mount Gambier City and District Kennel Club Dogfest.
With the event spanning over the four days, participants travelled from Tasmania, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria to take part.
Around 430 much loved dogs from a wide range of breeds were immaculately presented to judges by their dedicated owners at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds.
This was in addition to other dog owners heading to Hasting Cunningham Reserve, where more than 800 entries were registered for the Blue Lake Obedience Dog Club’s Easter trials.
“This year our judges have travelled from Queensland and New South Wales,” kennel club secretary Lyn Harris-Walker said.
She said people loved travelling to the Mount Gambier show as it offered a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
“We get many comments about our showgrounds and our friendly nature,” Ms Harris-Walker said.
The Easter long weekend show is made up of five championship shows, with two held on the Saturday.
Competitor Kim Houlden from Mornington Peninsula said this was her second year at the show and she returned after having a great time last year.
“We enjoy spending a bit of time in Mount Gambier, we came last Wednesday and stay for the week,” Ms Houlden said.
Adelaide’s Karmen Ran is a regular at the show with her three dogs Coco Chanel, Einstein and Maddy.
“I love the atmosphere at the country shows,” she said.
Teegan Hinks from Murray Bridge has been attending the show for 10 years and said she appreciated how well organised the event was.
“It is a great show and I also really like coming down to the colder weather,” Ms Hinks said.
This is the 75th year Mount Gambier has hosted the show.
