CARAVANNING enthusiasts could be forgiven for thinking a major show in
Victoria has gone to the dogs.
But they shouldn't be too concerned ... the Caravan Industry Association
of Victoria's latest venture is to raise money for a canine charity.
The three-day Border Caravan & Camping Expo will open at the Wodonga
Racecourse on August 25 and 'Man's best friend' will be welcome at this
year's event, with a pledge of $5000 to Albury Wodonga Animal Rescue.
The association has already contributed $30,000 to local charities and
non-profit organisations from its previous six shows.
Chief executive Rob Lucas said the family dog could attend next month's
show as part of the overall family experience.
"Many people prefer to travel with their pampered pooch rather than
leaving them at home these days, and our shows will now reflect that," he
said.
The association was very much aware that unfortunately not all pooches
were pampered.
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Mr Lucas walking with Rusty, who
was handed into the Albury Wodonga Animal Rescue centre. |
"And that is why we are excited to be able to donate $5000 to the Albury
Wodonga Animal Rescue," Mr Lucas explained.
"We thought that it aligned quite nicely with our new direction in
supporting travelling with your best friend – the family dog – and would
hopefully assist with some local dogs being treated and adopted into
loving homes."
The expo promises to deliver more caravans, pop-tops, tents, camper
trailers, motorhomes, campervans and 4WD off-road and touring accessories
than ever, including those that any pampered pooch would be happy to be
seen in.
Some products will be on display for the first time, and tourism
information will be available so enthusiasts can hit the road and 'Go Make
Some Memories' with their dogs.
More than 200 RVs will cater to every budget, every type of camping and
even the most fussy pooches.
Also on show will be a host of accessories, tents, annexes, destinations,
off-road and towing gear, and electronic and alternative power equipment.
Albury Wodonga Animal Rescue president Ella Bloomfield said she
appreciated the generous donation from the association and its move to
encourage responsible pet practices by allowing dogs on leashes at the
expo ... along with designated water stations for the dogs.
"This money will save lives of local animals which we would normally not
be able to save," she said.
"We get dogs in that have bad dental health, have hip problems and that
have been badly neglected.
"This money will go to save those where it is not normally possible."
Tickets are now available online (www.borderexpo.com.au)
and are $13 for adults and $11 for pensioners and concession card holders.
Children 15 years and under are free when accompanied by an adult.
A two-day pass costs $18 for adults and $16 for pensioners/concession.
There is a 10 percent discount for all tickets bought online.
Gates are open from 9.30am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday, and 9.30am to
4pm on Sunday.
