Pup Star: Elton
Hi, I’m Elton – but my friends call me Lil Man.
I’m a cuddly, cheeky pup from the famous Music Legends litter, and yes, I do like to think I’ve got a little star quality. There are nine of us in the band: Kylie, Dolly, Cher, Adele, Farnham, Jackson, Hendrix, Stevie and me, Elton. Our unique names were chosen by our amazing Puppy Pals, who give monthly to help pups like me get the best possible start.
Not to brag, but having Puppy Pals in our corner is a pretty big deal. Their support helps with all the important puppy business, from care and enrichment to expert training as we grow and discover the role that’s right for us.
Want to be part of my pack? By becoming a Puppy Pal, you can be there for pups like me as we grow.
I’ve got lots of growing and learning ahead of me, and I promise to try my very best along the way.
Welcome
Meet the team – Occupational Therapist, Erica
Your support makes possible much more than Guide Dogs. It also helps people who are blind or have low vision access specialist services and practical support to live life on their own terms. Occupational Therapist Erica is one of the people helping make that happen.
For Erica, there's nothing better than seeing someone discover they can do something they didn't think was possible. Here, Erica shares in her own words what drew her to occupational therapy and what makes supporting people with vision loss so rewarding.
Was there an early moment that confirmed you were in the right career?
I’ve always wanted a career where I could help people through some of the most vulnerable times in their lives, which drew me to occupational therapy. From the moment I joined Guide Dogs Victoria, I knew I was in the right place. The supportive culture and shared commitment to improving people’s lives felt very special.
I also love the variety, no two days are ever the same! I’ve worked with clients from 3 to 99 years old, all with unique goals and challenges. Whether I’m introducing assistive technology, rebuilding someone’s confidence or helping them continue something they love, seeing the difference this support makes everyday reminds me that I chose the right path.
What is the most rewarding part of your role?
It’s seeing clients develop skills and discover strategies that help them navigate everyday life more independently. Tasks that sighted people may take for granted can be significant challenges for someone experiencing vision loss. Watching a client’s confidence grow, and sharing the smiles or happy tears when they overcome a barrier is incredibly rewarding. I also value creating safe, welcoming spaces where clients can try new experiences, connect with their community and participate in meaningful activities.
What can be challenging, and how do you approach it?
Every client’s experience of vision loss is different, so I’m always learning about new strategies, adaptive equipment and technology. Building trust is just as important. I may be meeting someone for the first time and asking them to share deeply personal parts of their vision journey, wellbeing and mental health.
I bring a friendly, approachable manner to every conversation so clients feel heard, respected and supported, and I continually reflect on how I can provide the best person-centred care.
Thanks to your generosity, people who are blind or have low vision can access support from specialists like Erica, helping them build confidence, develop new skills and live the life they choose.
"Seeing a client's confidence grow and knowing you've helped them overcome a barrier is incredibly rewarding,"
Run Melbourne
A PAWsome team effort!
Team Guide Dogs truly put their best foot, and paw, forward at Run Melbourne in July!
From seasoned athletes chasing a personal best to first-time runners tackling a brand-new challenge, every member of the team gave it their all. Among them was Guide Dogs client and avid runner Patrick, who completed the event alongside his sighted guide, Benson.
Despite Patrick having 5% vision, he is a passionate runner who hopes to represent Australia at a future Paralympic Games. We’re so proud of how Patrick embodies the Guide Dogs Victoria purpose of ‘life without limits’. We couldn’t be prouder of everyone who laced up their runners, raised funds and went the extra mile for Guide Dogs.
Together, our incredible Run Melbourne community raised $44,400 to help support Guide Dogs and services that empower people who are blind or have low vision to live active, independent lives. A huge thank you to every runner, donor, supporter and sideline cheer squad who got behind the team. Whether you ran, donated or cheered from the sidelines, thank you for being part of Team Guide Dogs.
PAWGUST Results!
A PAWsitive finish for PAWGUST
We crossed the finish line of the final ever PAWGUST, and what a wonderful way to finish!
Across the country, 2,992 participants walked, ran, fundraised and rallied their communities, raising more than $487,500 to help make a difference for people living with low vision or blindness.
But PAWGUST has always been about more than the dollars raised.
It has brought people together, started conversations about inclusion and accessibility, and introduced a new generation to the difference Guide Dogs can make.
Truffle’s Tribe is a wonderful example. The Grade One students embraced the challenge, rallied their community and proudly exceeded their fundraising goal, all while learning about kindness, inclusion and accessibility through Truffle, the Guide Dog in Training who joined their classroom this year.
Here is what grade one teacher Samantha, shared with us:
Hi from the Truffle's Tribe!
We're so excited to be taking part in the LAST EVER PAWGUST challenge to raise vital funds for Guide Dogs. Our class has been lucky enough to welcome Truffle, a Guide Dog in Training, into our classroom this year.
Through Truffle, our students have learnt about kindness, inclusion, accessibility and the incredible difference Guide Dogs make in the lives of people living with low vision and blindness. Thanks for all you do!
Client Spotlight
Finding connection through the Men's Series
For men adjusting to blindness or low vision, rebuilding confidence can be about much more than learning practical skills. Connection with others who understand the experience can be just as important.
That’s why Occupational Therapist Erica created the Men’s Series, a welcoming space where men can learn practical skills, try new experiences and build confidence together. The Men's Series offers a welcoming space to learn practical skills, connect with others and build confidence together.
The impact has been powerful, with participants rediscovering hobbies, learning new skills, and forming meaningful friendships. One regular attendee is Sam.
Guide Dogs Victoria has been part of Sam's life since childhood. After losing his sight to eye cancer, he began accessing services at just eight years old. After losing his sight to eye cancer, he began accessing services at just eight years old.
Over the years, Sam has taken part in camps, occupational therapy and the Young Adult Program, building practical skills, confidence, and friendships. More recently, he became one of the first participants in the Men's Series.
From the left – Sam, Ricky, Sebastian and
Rory around the BBQ, engaging in a BBQ
skills lesson – cooking burgers together
Sam in cooking
group making
chocolate and
coconut balls.
Since attending the inaugural BBQ skills session in April, Sam has been a regular participant, enjoying practical activities such as gardening, cooking, and mastering the barbecue.
In a supportive environment, he's gained confidence to try new things and become more independent at home.
One standout moment was making homemade burger patties from scratch before cooking and enjoying them with the group. For Sam, the confidence gained during the sessions is carrying over into life at home.
"It's motivated me to do more cooking at home," he says.
Beyond practical skills, the Men's Series gives Sam the chance to connect with other men who share similar experiences. The friendships, conversations and camaraderie have become just as valuable as the activities.
Your support helps create opportunities like the Men’s Series, where people like Sam can build practical skills and confidence and, just as importantly, connect with others who understand their experience.
For Sam, that sense of connection has become every bit as valuable as the skills he is learning. Sam encourages: "If you are male living with blindness or low vision, I would definitely recommend attending one of the programs to see if this is something that interests you.”
Christmas is sorted!
PAWfect Presents for Christmas
Give a gift with purpose this Christmas.
Our PAWfect Presents range is back for Christmas, with calendars, cards and gifts for the dog lovers in your life or a little something for yourself.
Every purchase helps support Guide Dogs Victoria’s work with people who are blind or have low vision.
Start 2027 on the right paw with our much-loved Guide Dogs calendar, featuring beautiful pup portraits to enjoy throughout the year. - $24.95
Our photo-free A3 large print calendar features easy-to-read pages and plenty of space for appointments and reminders, designed with people with low vision in mind. - $24.95
Send a little puppy love this festive season. Each pack includes ten Christmas cards and envelopes across five joyful designs, perfect for sharing warm wishes, wagging tails and plenty of festive cheer with friends and family. - $15.95
Tiny paws, huge cuddle factor! Available in cream, these 10cm mini plush pups come proudly wearing their own harness. Pop one on your desk, shelf or bedside table for a little burst of Guide Dog cuteness wherever you need it. - $12.95
Meet the bedtime buddy that’s paw-sitively made for snuggles. This soft 40cm plush puppy has a zipped, lined compartment under its tummy, perfect for tucking away pyjamas or little treasures. Cute, cuddly and ready to curl up at lights-out. - $34.95
Step into comfort with socks that are full of paw-sonality. These cosy, one-size-fitsmost adult socks are perfect for dog lovers from heel to toe, adding a playful pop of pup pride to any outfit. - $14.95
Keep your dog visible on early morning walks, evening adventures and in low light with this clip-on LED safety light. It attaches easily to a collar, lead or harness, helping you and your four-legged companion stay seen. Available in four colours. - $9.95
Add fun to your downtime with this classic set of Guide Dogs playing cards. Perfect for game nights, travel, camping or relaxed afternoons with family and friends, they bring people together while showing support for a great cause. - $19.95
Keep your glasses and sunnies looking fetching with a handy lens cloth featuring a warm, fun design. Practical, lightweight and easy to pop in your bag or glasses case, it’s a little everyday essential with plenty of puppy charm. - $6.95
Assistive Technology
Kitchen tools that support independence
Preparing your own meal can be an important part of maintaining independence. For someone who is blind or has low vision, the right tools and techniques can make everyday tasks in the kitchen safer, easier and more accessible.
With your support, Guide Dogs Victoria Occupational Therapists work alongside clients to find practical strategies and equipment that suit their individual needs and goals.
Tools like these are just one part of the practical support our Occupational Therapists provide, helping clients build confidence and independence in everyday life.
Knife Guard: Worn on the hand while chopping, a knife guard protects fingers and supports safe knife handling techniques.
High Contrast Chopping Boards: Coloured chopping boards create contrast between food and the preparation surface, making ingredients easier to see and identify.
High Contrast Measuring Cups and Spoons: Large, easy-to-read markings make measuring ingredients simpler for people with low vision. Talking kitchen scales may also be recommended to provide spoken measurements.
Pull Chopper: Using a simple pull-cord mechanism, this handy device quickly chops vegetables, herbs and other ingredients, reducing effort and preparation time.
Palm Peeler: Designed to fit on the finger, a palm peeler helps users safely peel fruit and vegetables while reducing the risk of accidental cuts.
Cut-Resistant Gloves: These gloves provide added protection when using knives, graters and other sharp kitchen tools, helping to reduce the risk of injury.
Long Arm Heat-Resistant Gloves: Offering protection for the hands, wrists and forearms, these gloves make it safer to handle hot trays, cookware and appliances such as ovens and air fryers.
Park Trek 2027
Lace up with Nicky and Erin in 2027
After sharing the challenge, laughter and unforgettable memories of Park Trek in 2026, Guide Dogs Victoria CEO Nicky Long and Client Erin are lacing up their boots to do it all again – and they’d love you to join them.
In March 2027, they’ll take on four days of walking through the beautiful Daylesford and Goldfields region alongside fellow Guide Dogs supporters, raising funds to help people with low vision or blindness live with greater independence.
Whether it’s your first Park Trek or you’re coming back for another adventure, it’s a wonderful opportunity to challenge yourself, make new friends and experience some of Victoria’s most beautiful landscapes, all while supporting Guide Dogs Victoria.
WHEN: 16-19 March 2027
WHERE: The Daylesford and Goldfields region
Come along and walk alongside Nicky, Erin and fellow Guide Dogs supporters for four memorable days of challenge, connection and purpose.
Become a Volunteer
Make a difference by volunteering
Looking for another way to be part of the Guide Dogs community? Giving your time and skills can make a real difference, and volunteering doesn’t always mean working directly with dogs.
One of our most special opportunities is Puppy Raising, where volunteers welcome a young puppy into their home and help care for, socialise and prepare them for their future as a Guide Dog. It’s a truly rewarding experience and an important part of a puppy’s journey.
We also have a range of other volunteer opportunities to suit different interests, skills and availability. You might enjoy spending time with our dogs in the Training Kennels, sharing your skills in an administrative role, or helping us connect with the community through special events and activities.
Whatever role you choose, your contribution can make a genuine difference to the lives of people who are blind or have low vision while connecting with a community of people who share your passion for Guide Dogs.
Quiz time!
A little trivia – a big milestone
Next year, Guide Dogs Victoria turns 70 and it’s a milestonethat belongs to you, too.
For seven decades, generations of supporters, volunteers, partners and friends have helped make greater independence possible for people who are blind or have low vision. We simply couldn’t have reached this milestone without you.
To get the celebrations started early, we’ve put together seven trivia questions for 70 years –a trip down memory lane, celebrating some of the people, pups and special moments that helped shape the Guide Dogs story in Victoria.
Have a go, test your Guide Dogs knowledge and stay tuned as there’ll be plenty more to share as we get closer to 2027. We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
Questions
The Australian Guide Dog movement was founded by whom?
Dr Arnold Cook – arrived from England in 1950 with his wife, baby and Guide Dog Dreena
The country’s first Guide Dog Training Centre was established in which city and which year?
Perth in 1951.
What was the name of the renowned Guide Dog trainer from the UK who trained the very first Guide Dog in Australia, and what was that dog’s name?
Betty Bridge, and Beau was the Guide Dogs name.
What year did it become legal for a Guide Dog to fly domestically?
In 1962 – GDV advocated for the rights of our clients and the dogs that support them.
What date did Guide Dogs Victoria’s Kew campus officially open?
17th November 1962.
In 1989 which dog was first bred by Guide Dogs Victoria?
The Labradoodle.
The Association of Apex Clubs pioneered Guide Dog Training nationwide in which year?
In 1957 there were Guide Dog Associations in each state.
Pic's Peanut Butter
A partnership worth spreading
What do peanut butter, a Kiwi entrepreneur and a Guide Dog named Ollie have in common? Quite a lot, as it turns out.
We’re delighted to welcome Pic’s Peanut Butter as a new partner of Guide Dogs Australia and there’s a very personal story behind the connection. Founder Pic Picot is legally blind and lives with Macular Degeneration. His Guide Dog Ollie is by his side, so Pic knows firsthand the difference a Guide Dog can bring.
It started with a jar… The partnership kicked off during PAWGUST, with limited-edition Pic’s Peanut Butter jars featuring Guide Dogs Australia landing on shelves across the country, helping raise funds and awareness.
“Ollie came into my life almost exactly a year ago. His youthful exuberance and love of people ensure I enjoy an endless stream of connection with all sorts of people. Wandering down the street with a handsome guide dog is a huge confidence boost, and my life with my dog is richer than I could ever have imagined.”
Dog-friendly cookies
Fido's Canine Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Wholemeal Flour
- 1 tbsp Plain Unsweetened Desiccated Coconut
- 4 tbsp Pic’s Peanut Butter(Smooth No Salt)
- 1 Medium Egg
- 1 Mashed Banana
- 1 tsp Honey of your choice
- Preheat oven to 180°C on bake (160°C fan). Lightly grease a couple of baking trays with coconut oil.
- Place all ingredients in a large bowl and stir to combine.
- The mix should be able to be kneaded and rolled out on a flat surface. If it’s too wet, add more flour. If it’s too dry, add a little water or oat milk until the right consistency is reached.
- Knead dough and roll out onto a floured surface – it should be around 1cm thick.
- Cut dough into any shape you choose.
- Place biscuits onto greased trays and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Makes approximately 20. Biscuits should last 2-3 weeks in a sealed container.
Our partners
Thank you to our partners:
Your donations to Guide Dogs Victoria help us to continue our important work, including matching Guide Dogs and Therapy Dogs, Orientation and Mobility services and Occupational Therapy through almost 3,000 Client programs.
For more information, call 1800 804 805
