Celebrating 50 years in 2010

In 2010, Guide Dogs Queensland commemorates our Golden Anniversary. From humble beginnings in May 1960, the association has grown to be the premier provider of services to Queensland’s blind and vision impaired community, and one of the state’s most respected charities.

Today the association provides the complete range of services from Guide Dog Training to Electronic Mobility Aids. Regional offices have been established on the Gold and Sunshine coasts, Toowoomba, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Townsville and Cairns.

Click here to download Guide Dogs Queensland's special 50th anniversary booklet, highlighting our key achievements and milestones.

The association is proud of its 50-year record of delivering services – free of charge – to the Queensland community; and has several events planned throughout the year to celebrate. Keep an eye on our Calendar of Events for the latest dates, or make note of the dates below and come join in fun.

If you are unable to come along to an event you can share in the celebrations online. To find out how you can create your own Hero Page; share your own 50th celebrations; or lend your support to others’ fundraising efforts click here.

Major 50 Year Events in 2010

Official launch of our 50th Anniversary – 19 February 2010

The first official event for the year will be held today to conincide with the launch of our 50th Anniversary Pawknock Appeal. A Brinabella Leading Gold Rose, specially cultivated for GDQ's 50th Anniversary, will be planted in front of represnetatives fron our 2010 Media Partners and invited guests. For more information please contact Communications and Marketing Manager Donna Hurley on email on: d.hurley@guidedogsqld.com.au

GDQ's 50th Anniversary Pawknock Appeal – 21 February to 6 March 2010
Thousands of volunteers across the state will knock on doors to raise funds for GDQ’s Pawknock Appeal. "Pawknockers" call on neighbours, local businesses, colleagues and friends. To find out more about Pawknock call 1800 007 460 or email pawknock@guidedogsqld.com.au. You can even sign up to be a virtual "Pawknocker" and start your own on-line hero page. For futher information click here.

International Guide Dog Day – Wednesday, 28 April 2010

International Guide Dog Day (IGDD) is held on the last Wednesday of April and celebrates the safe and independent travel achieved by people who are blind and vision impaired through the eyes of a Guide Dog. The day is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the legal rights of Guide Dog teams to enter public places and transport.

GDQ holds an invite-only Guide Dog Team Graduation ceremony at Bald Hills attended by Government Ministers for Disability and Community Services, Local, State and Federal MPs, Puppy Sponsors and supporters.

Guide Dogs Queensland Anniversary –  Wednesday, 26 May 2010

The Governor of Queensland and Patron of Guide Dogs Queensland hosted an exclusive function to celebrate the Golden Anniversary of the association at Government House. Long time supporters and ambassadors of the association were invited to attend the evening cocktail function. This event commemorated the inaugural meeting of the Guide Dog for the Blind Association of Queensland on 26 May 1960 in Brisbane. Click here to read the Governor's Speech

GDQ’s 50th Birthday Concert and Open Day - Sunday, 4 July 2010

Everyone is invited! Young families, dog lovers, puppy sponsors, volunteers and donors travel from across South East Queensland and corporate partners enjoy a special area ringside. Highlights include Guide Dog kennel tours; Guide Dog and White Cane demonstrations; action in the main arena from visiting Dog Services and Clubs; Children’s rides and competitions, food and Guide Dog show bags. Parking available onsite, please leave pets at home. Gates open at 10.00am! 

International White Cane Day – Thursday, 14 October 2010

International White Cane Day is held around the world each year on 15 October as a way of raising awareness of people in the community who use the White Cane. GDQ stages a public event in the Queen St Mall and a private event for graduates of our UltraCane program. The events raise awareness in the community of cane users and how they can be supported.

GDQ Wine Club lunches

Our Wine Club features the produce of family owned vineyards such as Tyrrell’s Wines and Yalumba through an exclusive cellar door delivery format. The club will stage a series of wine lunches for up to 160 guests throughout the year.

For event updates go to News and Events.