SMART PUPS FUNDRAISER LUNCHEON A SUCCESS

Smart Pups Assistance Dogs Organisation is a not-for-profit charity organisation based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. Smart Pups specialise in providing trained service dogs to assist children with special needs. Their goal is to improve the quality of life of children with special needs by training assistance dogs in task-specific skills.

Each year, organised by Craig Harley, QLD State Manager for IGT, the club and pub industry get together to raise funds for Smart Pups at the annual luncheon at the McGuire’s Hotels celebrated Paddo Tavern in Brisbane.

This year a record 484 attendees filled the Paddo Tavern to enjoy a seafood lunch and listen to guest speakers.

This year’s event included Dawn Fraser as the guest speaker, with Big Wave Surfer Mark Mathews, All Blacks Legend Andrew Mehrtens and (ARIA) Hall of Fame Inductee John Paul Young as featured guests.

Each year the event presents a family with the pup that Smart Pups will train for their child with special needs. Last years’ recipient Rebecca and son her William attended with their Smart Pup Harley (named in honour of Craig). William thanked everyone himself on the microphone, a big step in confidence from the shy boy who was presented with Harley last year.

$82,425 was raised on the day with 100% of the funds donated to the Smart Pups Assistance Dogs Organisation.

 

You can donate directly to Smart Pups here >>> https://www.smartpups.org.au/donate/

 

See highlights of the day >>>>