Saturday, 3 January 2026

Community backs Paws for a Cause

PAWS for a Cause supported young people in need on Sunday morning. Around 12 participants and their dogs took part in the YMCA’s event, which included a five kilometre walk to raise money and awareness for young people experiencing disadvantage...

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by Sentinel-Times
Community backs Paws for a Cause
Dog walkers gathered outside the Bass Coast Leisure Centre in Wonthaggi to support Paws for a Cause. tkPawsForACause01_4723
Tracey Wain, Susan Banks, Vicki Clarke and Carol Hamilton participated in the Paws for a Cause dog walking event on Sunday morning. tkPawsForACause02_4723
Tracey Wain, Susan Banks, Vicki Clarke and Carol Hamilton participated in the Paws for a Cause dog walking event on Sunday morning. tkPawsForACause02_4723

PAWS for a Cause supported young people in need on Sunday morning.

Around 12 participants and their dogs took part in the YMCA’s event, which included a five kilometre walk to raise money and awareness for young people experiencing disadvantage.

The YMCA runs an Open Doors program to support families experiencing disadvantage, and the Paws for a Cause event will go towards helping young people through the provision of free food and personal items.

These essentials are offered to young people in need through the YES Youth Hub.

“The whole premise is a fun day where we get to take our dogs out, go for walk and contribute to kids in need,” YMCA health and wellness program coordinator Branca McFarlane said.

Participants could choose the 400-metre short walk around the oval at the Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve or walk a five-kilometre route around Wonthaggi through the wetlands and back.

Treats for pet owners and pooches were provided at the event.

The YMCA was thrilled to see the return of Paws for a Cause after the pandemic.

“We ran this event twice before COVID, so we thought we would run it again. It was successful with a lot of participation and a lot of fun,” Branca said.

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