‘Family fun’ at Warragul

[Wandering Eyes]

Warragul GRC transformed into a kids’ zone during its ‘Family Fun Day’ on Thursday.

Around 150 children, with parents in tow, enjoyed a day of fun-filled activities – including a veritable ‘Conga line’ for face painting.

They also rode on the Chairoplane and Cup-and-Saucer, slid down the Atomic Drop, and gravitated to the ‘Animals On The Move’ enclosure.

Youngsters (aged 15 and under) also received a snack pack, drink bottle, colour-in sheets and more. They even got to pose with ‘Mickey Mouse’ and ‘Minnie Mouse’.

And going ‘off the shelves’ in droves were two illustrated greyhound books, beautifully written by Kylie Miller.

‘Albert, The Greyhound Who Loves to Run’ is a heart-warming, true story of an anxious adopted greyhound, who overcomes his fear of cats to find a safe home, a warm bed and a family of his own.

‘Teddy, The Most Beautiful Boy in the World’ is also a children’s picture book based on Kylie’s experience with her adopted greyhound, “Teddy”.

Teddy thinks he’s the most beautiful boy in the world. Then he discovers he has a long, pointy nose, a skinny body and a bald bum.

I may have been last in line, but I made sure the two books made their way to my three grandkids.

GRV’s Sean Stanton brought along his loyal GAP pooch, Marshall, which was the cynosure of all eyes for the kids – and, yes, their mothers and fathers. We lost count on the number of hugs and pats the adorable fawn-coloured canine received.

There were plenty of offers to take seven-year-old Marshall home. But Sean wasn’t buying any of that, quipping “I’d have a lot to explain to my partner”.

Sean (GAP re-homing manager) also brought along some GAP literature and merchandise, including keyrings and silicone wristbands.

There was also a 12-race (300+Rank) fixture conducted, with Hazelwood North’s Damian Meade taking training honours with a double courtesy of littermates Nibiru ($4.50) – which made it three in a row – and Sumerian ($2.50F).

One local parent, who has attended many a pony club meeting behind the racetrack, mentioned that it was the first time she’d seen a greyhound race and added: “I can’t believe how fast they go.”

Warragul GC manager Tony Mitchell, who orchestrated the fantastic family day, was delighted with the response from the local community.

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