What’s Happening?
Guide Dogs Queensland is calling on Toowoomba locals to join the final ever PAWGUST this August. The month-long challenge invites dog lovers, fitness enthusiasts and other supporters to walk or run with purpose.
People can register online, choose their own distance goal and create a fundraising page. They can participate alone or form a team with colleagues, friends, family or other community members.
Each registered participant will receive a complimentary pedometer to track their progress. Fundraising rewards will also be available throughout the campaign.
Why It Matters?
The campaign funds the raising and training of Guide Dogs. It also supports essential services for people who are blind or have low vision.
Together, these services help Queenslanders live with greater confidence and independence. The organisation also provides specialist support, assistive technology and community programs across the state.
Guide Dogs Queensland supports clients to live independently, participate fully in their communities and work towards their personal goals. Its work also helps create a more inclusive and accessible Queensland.
Local Impact
Toowoomba residents can turn regular exercise into practical support for people across Queensland. Local workplaces, families, friendship groups and community organisations can participate together.
The final campaign gives the city one last chance to support the long-running fundraiser. Residents can also help raise awareness of the freedom and independence that Guide Dogs provide.
By The Numbers
- Participants are asked to walk or run at least 60km during August, while the campaign aims to raise $120,000.
- PAWGUST has raised close to $8 million nationally since launching eight years ago, supporting Guide Dogs organisations across Australia.
- Raising and training one Guide Dog costs more than $50,000. Guide Dogs Queensland aims to double its services by 2032.
Zoom In
Long-time client, volunteer and PAWGUST participant Sue Bolton-Wood knows firsthand how much a Guide Dog can change a life. The annual event became her way to champion the cause that transformed her life. For five campaigns, she shared every step with her Guide Dog, Vegas.
“PAWGUST gave us another reason to get out together and show people what Guide Dogs make possible,” Bolton-Wood said. “Every step helped raise awareness and support for others who have low vision or blindness, and it was my way of giving back.”
After five PAWGUSTs together, Vegas is enjoying a well-earned retirement. Bolton-Wood will complete the final campaign with her new Guide Dog, Angel.
“It’s bittersweet knowing this is the last PAWGUST,” she said. “Vegas and I made so many wonderful memories through the challenge, so it feels special that Angel and I can be part of the final one together.”
Bolton-Wood encouraged other Queenslanders to help more people gain the confidence, independence and freedom her Guide Dogs have provided.
“Every kilometre you walk and every dollar you raise helps create more life-changing partnerships just like the one I had with Vegas and the one I now have with Angel. Let’s make this final PAWGUST the biggest one yet.”
Zoom Out
Guide Dogs Queensland chief executive Jock Beveridge wants Queenslanders to make the final campaign its strongest.
“Over the past eight years, PAWGUST has encouraged Australians to join the pack and walk for those who have a critical need for our services, raising close to $8 million across the country,” Beveridge said. “We want to make this final PAWGUST a powerful celebration of what our community can achieve when we come together to support people who are blind or have low vision.”
The campaign’s conclusion marks a significant point for the charity. Beveridge said its fundraising and community engagement methods would continue changing.
“All good things must come to an end and, as Guide Dogs Queensland continues to evolve, so will the ways we bring our community together to support this cause. As part of our Bridging the Gap to 2032 campaign, we’re aiming to double our services by 2032. Reaching that goal means adapting and setting new benchmarks for how we fundraise and connect with Queenslanders.”
Guide Dogs Queensland describes itself as one of Australia’s most trusted charities. It supports people who are blind or have low vision through Guide Dogs and specialist services.
Its work also includes assistive technology and community programs that support independence, inclusion and community participation.
What To Look For Next?
Registrations for the final PAWGUST are now open through the PAWGUST website. Participants can create a fundraising page and begin their challenge at any point during August.
The final campaign will continue throughout the month, giving Toowoomba residents time to participate. After PAWGUST ends, Guide Dogs Queensland will develop other ways to raise funds and connect with supporters.
