A fundraiser at Ettalong Bowling Club on May 1 resulted in a donation of $3,400 to Guide Dogs Australia.
Guide Dogs Central Coast Support Group spokesperson, Lynne Lillico, said bowlers from the Ettalong Club and Pearl Beach joined representatives from Guide Dogs head office for a fun-filled morning of exciting and competitive bowls.
“International Guide Dog Day (IGDD) celebrates the important role Guide Dogs play in supporting people around the world with low vision or blindness to achieve their goals and live independently,” Lillico said.
“This year Guide Dogs Australia will highlight the challenges and issues experienced by Guide Dog handlers caused by refusals and access issues.
“They will also shine a positive light on businesses and organisations making their premises and services accessible and inclusive for all.”
Lillico said four clients with their Guide Dogs and other members of the Central Coast Volunteer Support Group managed a merchandise stall in the lobby of the club on the day, sharing their experiences with visitors and discussing how Guide Dogs provide services to help people with low vision and blindness.
“Friends and visitors enjoyed the club facilities and generously supported the auction of a lovely Central Coast water scene painted by Pearl Beach artist Marijke Greenway,” she said.
“This was followed by the raffle with a variety of prizes generously donated by local businesses and friends, which created a frenzy of ticket sales.”
Lillico said Gary Bristow, Head of Fundraising for Guide Dogs, presented a new large Donation Model Dog to the club to replace a much-loved but very old dog.
“Naming the new dog by the bowlers and visitors created a variety of unusual and interesting suggestions; the final choice was Champ.”
Source:
Media release, May 10
Central Coast Support Group, Guide Dogs