POOCHES PINCH LIMELIGHT AT COOLY ROCKS ON
COOLY Rocks On is known for flash cars and throwback fashion, but this year it was the four-legged visitors who stole the show.
The festival’s Poodle and Pug Parade attracted thousands to watch dogs strut their stuff, in every category from ‘Prettiest Pooch’ to ‘Best Dressed’.
It was a record year for the festival, with more than 100,000 people turning out over the five-day event.
For one little debutante, all the attention was just an added bonus.
Perhaps helping toy poodle Cartier’s nerves was the smooth ride in his very own car, crafted from a children’s toy by owner Luke Kestle, of Motor Fab in Molendinar.
The car, handpainted and upholstered, took a week to make, with Mr Kestle and partner Katie Osner, from Waggy Tails Dog Spa, driving five hours to pick it up.
It took Ms Osner two hours to get Cartier ready for the competition, sporting a matching bow, diamond-studded collar, and bright red toenails.
Ms Olsen adopted the now 11-year-old dog seven years ago, after his previous owner passed away, and said he’s always been a fabulous pooch.
“He used to be entered into grooming shows, not by me, so I haven’t put him into any competitions since I’ve had him,” she said.
“We go every year but we’ve never entered, so we thought we’d put him in this year because he’s very handsome.