Holroyd City’s PetFest 2009 a great success

Holroyd City Council hosted its yearly PetFest event on Sunday 20 September 2009 at Holroyd Gardens.

PetFest is Holroyd Council’s key event to promote responsible pet ownership and raise funds for abandoned local companion animals at Blacktown Pound.

Mayor Clr John Perry said: “This years PetFest was fantasic! The number of entries in the various competitions such as the Holroyd City Council Flyball Cup and the Nine Network Pet Passion for Fashion Show was tremendous and were enjoyed by all. It’s pleasing to note that all the fun on the day contributed to a very worthwhile cause, namely the welfare of abandoned companion animals at Blacktown Pound.”

Flyball is a dog sport in which teams of dogs compete in a relay through hurdles, to retrieve a ball released from a spring loaded pad. Holroyd’s Flyball cup involved thirteen teams from around Australia. The winner on the day was 1st- Norwest Thunderdogs.

PetFest helps address the issue of education by creating an enjoyable environment in which pet owners – and prospective pet owners – can learn about their animals and services available from Council. The event was first held at Holroyd Gardens in September 2003 and has since become an annual event. It is estimated a record 10,000 people attended the event, together with close to 50 stall holders comprising of food and merchandise stalls and animal welfare organisations.

Those that came along enjoyed educational performances by Jack and Jess Stockland myfunland childrens show and Dora the Explorer was a huge highlight for the younger audience members. The free pony rides, sheep dog demonstrations and sheep shearing demonstrations brought a little bit of country to the City’s event.

Close to 100 pets were microchipped which was a complimentary service provided by Holroyd City Council on the day and a resident from Merrylands was lucky enough to take home the outdoor dining setting thanks to Bunnings Villawood in the Scan & Win Competition.

Legendary animal trainer Steve Austin from Harry’s Practice was Master of Ceremonies again this year.

Ends.

For further information contact the Media Relations and Promotions Manager on 9840 9717, 0416 105 029 or email web2@holroyd.nsw.gov.au.