'Webcke' likely to lead new Queensland team - December 2010

Guide Dogs Queensland recently honoured rugby league legend Shane Webcke by naming one of its prized puppies after the former Bronco and Australian Test forward.

It’s hoped the eight-week-old golden Labrador Retriever – the only male in a nine pup litter - will one day become a life-changing Guide for someone with little or no vision.

The charity made the gesture after the man once regarded as the best front-rower in the world, committed himself and his family to helping the organisation raise funds.

Shane is the new ‘face’ of Guide Dogs Queensland’s Christmas Appeal and features in a personalised letter from its CEO being delivered to post-boxes around the State.

Given the widespread popularity of the former Maroon hardman and current Channel Seven presenter, the charity is confident Queenslanders will embrace the Appeal.

To donate to Guide Dog’s Queensland Christmas Appeal, Freecall 1800 007 460 or visit our secure online donation website.

Guide Dogs Queensland CEO Chris Laine said Shane had gone above and beyond the endorsement offered by many personalities to charities by committing his own money to its cause, in addition to his new role as an ‘Ambassador’ for the organisation.

Soon after his first visit to Guide Dogs Queensland we received an application in the post to our ‘Puppy Guardianship’ program from Shane and his family,” she said.

As was his trademark on the field, Shane went about committing himself quietly and deliberately without any fanfare whatsoever. We were very touched by the gesture.”

Only 60 percent of Guide Dog puppies go on to achieve the exacting standards needed to graduate as a dog in harness. But despite this trainers have high hopes for ‘Webcke’, who has already earned a reputation for his stamina, determination and cheeky personality.

Webcke is one of almost 120 puppies bred at GDQ’s Bald Hills training centre this year, more than doubling the number of litters in recent years. The organisation has invested heavily in its breeding program to address a growing demand for Guide Dog services. Currently 15 Queenslanders are on its wait list to receive a Guide Dog.

Given each one costs $30,000 to train and place, this year’s record tally of pups has come with a hefty price tag. Guide Dogs Queensland is hopeful the appeal of one of the State’s favourite sons will influence Queenslanders to dig deep this Christmas.

Shane, a father-of-three, said it was his family that influenced his decision to help GDQ.

I think all things that remind our children of how fortunate their own circumstances are, are worthwhile to be involved with. I think it helps them to be more rounded, informed and accepting adults, Shane said.

Having heard about the dramatic improvement the introduction of a Guide Dog brings to someone with little or no vision, and the beautiful bond that they come to share with the animal, it makes the decision to become involved very simple.”

To donate to Guide Dog’s Queensland Christmas Appeal, Freecall 1800 007 460 or visit our secure online donation website.