Special pet program gets award nomination

Baw Baw Shire Council’s aged and disability services team has been nominated for an award at the 2017 Victorian Regional Achievement and Community Awards.

The team has been announced as one of three finalists for the “Life Activities Clubs and Henry Carus and Associates Senior Achievement Award” for the volunteer pet program which assists clients with dog walking, pet grooming and non-emergency animal transport to the vet.

The Victorian Regional Achievement and Community Awards are designed to encourage, acknowledge and reward the valuable contributions individuals, communities and businesses are making throughout regional and rural Victoria.

Mayor Joe Gauci congratulated staff and volunteers who facilitate the pet program and thanked them for their ongoing dedication to the service.

“We are really fortunate to have such a passionate and dedicated aged and disability service team and truly wonderful volunteers who consistently make positive and valuable contributions to our community.

“The pet program is a really special program as we know the positive health and wellbeing outcomes that arise from pet ownership. We are proud to be able to provide a support service that offers our residents a helping hand to look after their furry friends,” he said.

Cr Gauci encouraged residents to keep an eye out for the “people’s choice award” on the Victorian Regional Achievement and Community Awards Facebook page.

All award winners will be announced at the official awards gala presentation dinner on October 13 at The Atrium in Flemington.

Chris Webb was the volunteer who originally established the pet program in Baw Baw Shire. Chris is still active in the program and continues to assess all animals for program suitability.