Paws at the Park founders Jenna Schroeder and Lia Ferguson prepare to hand over leash on popular event
Founders of the popular Paws in the Park market have made a major announcement about its future as they prepare to host their latest event.
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The founders of the popular Paws at the Park dog market are to hand over the leash – with their last event taking place in just two weeks.
Jenna Schroeder and Lia Ferguson have been running the markets since their first event at Musgrave Park in April 2016.
The next edition takes place in Mudgeeraba on October 19, with more than 100 stalls showcasing dog products and services, as well as food trucks, competitions and off-leash areas for dogs big and small.
Ms Schroeder said it will be their last, but the duo were in discussions with potential new owners to keep the markets going in future years.
“It’s been an incredible journey bringing together dog lovers from across the region and raising over $75,000 for Animal Welfare League QLD,” the former council candidate said.
“Running this event has been a passion project that brought our community together, supported animal welfare and promoted responsible pet ownership.”
Ms Ferguson said she was confident the markets would continue under new owners.
“When we began there were no other events like it in the country. Over the past eight years we have supported over 380 small businesses, allowing them to reach their customers, it’s been quite the ride,” she said.
“Although this will be our last time organising the event, we’re confident that it will continue to be a staple for dog lovers on the Gold Coast.”
It’s the second popular market on the Gold Coast to have a cloud cast over its future after the Gold Coast Art and Craft Market last month announced it was not renewing its council permit.
Managing director Damon Robbins has since revealed he has been in talks with Gold Coast City Council to save the weekly community event.
Division 9 councillor Glenn Tozer praised the work of Ms Schroeder and Ms Ferguson running Paws at the Park, saying the markets had also provided a valuable opportunity for council to communicate with dog owners.
“Paws at the Park has become a much-loved institution for dog-lovers in the hinterland and across the city and we’ve been proud to host it in Division 9 over several years now,” Cr Tozer said.
“The Council’s animal management team also see it as an opportunity to talk directly to local dog owners about new dog parks, any new dog regulations, and of course encourage everyone to register their furry friends and be responsible pet owners.
“Lia and Jenna haven’t just been event managers though. We’ve been stoked to see them raise money for important local charitable causes at their events and they should be commended for their commitment and foresight in creating and driving this wonderful event during its time with us.”
Paws at the Park takes place at the Mudgeeraba Showgrounds on Saturday October 19 from 9am to 2pm. Entry is free, with a $5 donation for parking
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