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All Kinds Of Pets At The Expo

All kinds of animals ventured out with their owners for a day at the Bass Coast Pet Expo. Despite the wet weather various dogs, ferrets, snakes, and lizards gathered to enjoy the Expo held at San Remo

By Bass Coast - 11th May 2012 - Back to News

Bass Coast Shire Council Community and Economic Development Director, Steven Piasente, said that the Expo is about educating people on responsible pet ownership and to celebrate living with all kinds of animals.

"Council’s Community Safety Rangers handed out promotional information bags and helped people to take advantage of the discount micro-chipping offer on the day. The Rangers also held a panel discussion about responsible pet ownership and dog off-leash areas," said Mr Piasente.

There were plenty of other interesting stalls giving pet advice such as Bowen Therapy for pets and the Victorian Ferret Society explained the joy of living with ferrets.

"Crowds lined up for the pony ride, face painting and small animal farm which were favourites especially with the kids," continued Mr Piasente.

"Early in the day there was a visit from a Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria judge. This was because our Community Safety Rangers have entered their campaign ‘Dog Owners Do the Right Thing’, into this year’s Keep Australia Beautiful awards. The judge also visited Venus Bay Surf Life Saving Club on Friday, and went to Ventnor after the Expo to check out some of our dog beaches," explained Mr Piasente.

In the afternoon the popular Children’s Pet Parade was judged in six categories. Cr John Duscher was part of the panel that assessed entries for: Most interesting cat; Best dressed cat; Most interesting dog; Best dressed dog; Most interesting pet other than cat or dog; and Judges choice.

"The stand out was the entry for Most interesting pet other than cat or dog, which was won by Jett McKenzie for his Stumpy Back lizard and Small Central Bearded Dragon. The family are registered snake breeders and Jett’s Dad also entered his five year old albino Python in the competition, while daughter Maddison held onto the tiny five month old snake," continued Mr Piasente.

Prizes were also handed out to winners of the primary school colouring-in competition San Remo, Wonthaggi North, St Joseph’s Wonthaggi and Inverloch Primary School all took part. There were winning entries in four age groups for first, second and third place.

"Because of the great response to the competition, two marquees were needed and the colouring in covered the walls like wallpaper to make an amazing display. I would like to thank all of our sponsors and congratulate Council staff, in particular the Community Safety team, who did a wonderful job to make sure the Expo ran smoothly," Mr Piasente said.

"The success of this year’s event ensures it will be a highlight of next year’s events calendar too."

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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