A free Christmas in July event in Melton will unite paws, claws, and people for a family-focused community day.
Hosted at Hannah Watts Park from 11am–3pm on Saturday, July 12, the children and pet-friendly event will include free activities and food – such as a barbecue, popcorn, fairy floss, entertainment, face painting, balloons, and an animal farm.
There will also be a dog obstacle course and awards offered across the categories of ‘best-dressed’, ‘floppiest ears’, and ‘prettiest pooch.’
The event is an initiative of Melton West-based non-profit organisation the Rehmat Sandhu Foundation, which was formed in 2015 by Ravinder Kaur in honour of her son, who died in December 2014.
The organisation is an NDIS-registered provider of support services for people living with a disability and mental illness.
Ms Kaur said that she encourages the Melton community to attend the day filled with joy and play emphasising the healing power of animals and the importance of companionship
“Christmas in July holds a special significance in Australia, serving as a delightful way to celebrate the festive spirit during the winter months … our pets offer companionship and comfort, especially during challenging times,” Ms Kaur said.
“I have myself experienced the love of a pet – I have a cockatiel, and after Rehmat passed away, I had lost my voice, and none of the speech therapists could help me – but my cockatiel Bennu, he got my voice back,” she said.
All dogs must be leashed at all times, and owners are requested to bring waste bags and water and to keep the area clean.
Details: tinyurl.com/mvbvjya7
