LOCAL FACES AND BUSINESSES BACK PAWS FOR GAWS CHARITY DOG WALK

Animal lovers and their four-legged friends are invited to join some familiar local faces at the upcoming PAWS for GAWS Charity Dog Walk, a fun and family-friendly fundraiser supporting Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS).

Community ambassadors including Kate Darby, Jed Bews, Lauren ‘Loggy’ Temuskos and Roxie Bennett, along with their dogs, will be lacing up their walking shoes on Sunday 1 March in support of GAWS and its vital work caring for and rehoming lost and surrendered animals.

Local sponsors are also stepping up to ensure funds raised from the event go directly toward caring for shelter animals and animal welfare initiatives.

GAWS CEO Helen Cocks said the event highlights the power of community support.

“PAWS for GAWS is a wonderful way for our community to come together for animals who need our help,” Ms Cocks said. “We’re thrilled to have like-minded ambassadors and sponsors supporting this special event and helping us raise essential funds.”

For the third consecutive year, local advocate for fitness, mental health and community wellbeing Pete Murrihy has signed on as an ambassador, joined by his border collie, Frankie.

“PAWS for GAWS is such an important event for our community. It shines a light on the incredible work GAWS does every day for animals who need care and a second chance,” Mr Murrihy said. “It’s also a fantastic morning out - getting active, connecting with others and Frankie loves catching up with his GAWS friends. If you’re thinking about doing the walk, just do it.”

Adding to the vibrant event atmosphere, major sponsors K rock & bay 93.9 and Hill’s Pet Nutrition will be part of the bustling event hub, offering giveaways, expert advice and entertainment for both dogs and their humans.

Geelong Broadcasters General Manager Rachel Patterson said the station was proud to support the cause.

“The K rock and bay 93.9 teams are passionate about the great work that GAWS does and are thrilled to support this special event,” Ms Patterson said. “Our on-air announcers are revved up to promote this on air and bring their doggos down. We want to make a difference for animals in need in a fun and meaningful way so The K rock event team will be there with free slushies, kids’ games and our ‘Snappo photo booth’ to capture special moments between dogs and their owners at PAWS for GAWS.”

Hill’s Pet Nutrition Customer Development Executive - Vet & Shelters Jasmine Katic said the company was equally proud to be involved.

“Hill’s Pet Nutrition is proud to support PAWS for GAWS and help highlight the incredible work of the Geelong Animal Welfare Society,” Ms Katic said. “We encourage everyone to join the walk and enjoy a morning out with their furry friends, while learning more about the role nutrition plays in lifelong pet health at the interactive Hill’s marquee.”

The event will feature a relaxed 4km walk along the Geelong Waterfront, followed by post-walk festivities and family-friendly activities.

For more information, registrations and to support fundraising efforts, visit pawsforgaws.org.au.