Racing greyhounds, free food, face painting, slides and an animal farm are among a raft of activities at Warragul Greyhound Racing Club’s annual Family Fun Day bonanza. The free event will be held during the first week of the school holidays from 11.30am to 2.30pm on Thursday, April 13.
Alongside the exciting greyhound racing, will be face-painting, a 9D cinema, a giant slide, a mini animal farm, and a special appearance from Minnie and Mickey Mouse.
Families will also each receive a complimentary children's meal and healthy snack and have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the greyhounds at the Club’s parade yard.
Warragul Greyhound Racing General Manager Tony Mitchell said this was the fourth year the Club had hosted its annual Family Fun Day.
“We’re delighted to welcome families to our Club for a day of fun and entertainment,” Mr Mitchell said. “Last year we had over 500 people attend the event, and this year we are expecting a bigger turn out, as we have even more activities, prizes and giveaways.”
Along with the entertainment, the Club will give away 150 children's picture books written by Kylie Miller and illustrated by Karen Erasmus. The books each feature a greyhound as its protagonist and are based on Ms Miller's experience of adopting a greyhound.
Mr Mitchell said the Family Fun Day aims to introduce families to greyhounds in a safe and fun environment.
“We are working towards changing the public perception of greyhounds as dogs. Many people think that because greyhounds run fast, and chase a lure, that they wouldn’t be a suitable pet. But in fact, the opposite to this perception is true,” he said.
“Greyhounds have a gentle and calm nature. They are low maintenance, very affectionate and make wonderful family pets.”
As part of the Club’s mission to encourage more people to provide loving homes for retired greyhounds, families will be able to interact with the dogs and learn about their care and training. In the parade yard they will be able to meet the greyhounds’ trainers and handlers, ask questions and learn about this unique breed of dog.
“At the Club we support our greyhounds from birth to retirement and beyond,” Mr Mitchell said.
“Greyhounds only have a running life of four to five years. Adopting a greyhound is a rewarding experience because you are giving a deserving animal a loving home but also gaining a loyal and loving companion.”
For more information on Warragul Greyhound Family Fun Day call 03 5623 1867 or visit http://warragul.grv.org.au/