By KATH GANNAWAY
HEALESVILLE Rotary have big plans for their inaugural Dogs Day Out community fund-raiser on Sunday, 6 March.
And, they have set the pace with the choice of Phoenix, a Leonberger, as not only their mascot, but as parade leader … and a judge.
It’s a huge responsibility, but owners Steve and Lorraine Odell are confident their gentle giant is up to the job.
He is certainly the model mascot for several of the categories – Most Handsome Dog, Most Appealing Eyes, Fluffiest Tail, Best Smile, Shiniest Coat … and, perhaps Best 6 Legs (dog and owner)?
Obviously, a Gentle Giant.
The categories are designed to ensure that any dog, big or small, and any owner, big or small, can find their niche event and have a lot of fun.
To be fair, as a judge, Phoenix, is a non-contender for any of the 18 categories, but he is taking his ambassadorial role very seriously according to Lorraine, and, along with other members of his family, will be an awesome parade leader.
A number of local community members have been recruited to be guest judges.
Rotary President, Lesley Plumpton, said Rotary members were looking for a ‘signature’ family event that would have broad appeal, be a lot of fun and raise funds for Rotary projects.
The event will be held at the Don Road Sporting Complex from 10am to 2pm with the parade and a demonstration by the Healesville and District Dog Club at noon.
Rotary members will be outside Healesville Library from 10am to noon on Saturdays 20 and 27 February for pre-registration, or enter on the day from 9.30am.
For further information, including details on all the categories, visit www.rotaryhealesville.org.
