Iconic pink-haired celebrity Gold Coast poodle Coco Chanel passes away aged 13

She was the breakout star of the 2011 production of Pyjamas in Paradise which spawned her glamorous signature pink look. Now the iconic Coco Chanel’s devastated owners have sadly announced her passing this week.

Coco Chanel was a fundraising dog and best known on the Gold Coast for her involvement with Cooly Rocks. Picture Glenn Hampson

THE Gold Coast’s beloved pink-haired celebrity poodle Coco Chanel has sadly passed away at the age of 13 after living a colourful life in the spotlight.

The star standard poodle will be remembered for her signature dyed pink fur, her diamante-clad collars, her larger than life accessories and for raising thousands of dollars for charities.

Devastated owners Tony and Sue Zocchi said the pooch, who passed suddenly last week from an aneurysm, “put smiles on many faces”.

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Dressed in pink Tahlia Avgerinos, 7 from Oxenford with poodle Coco Chanel who raised awareness for animal welfare at the inaugural Paws & Pizzazz animal expo at Sanctuary Cove. Picture: NIGEL HALLETT.

Coco Chanel came into the lives the Zocchis’ when she was fostered out from the RSPCA after being tangled up in an animal cruelty court case.

“She came into our lives and changed it in one hell of a beautiful way,” said Mrs Zocchi.

“She always drew a crowd wherever she went and brought so much joy to everyone who met her.

“She is the iconic Gold Coast pink poodle.”
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Coco with owner and agent Sue Zocchi. Picture Glenn Hampson

The celebrity dog shot to fame eight years ago while featuring in John Michael Howson’s acclaimed stage show Pyjamas in Paradise which Mrs Zocchi said was responsible for Coco Chanel’s signature look.

“She had to be pink for the show and that just spawned her whole look going forward,” she said.

“She absolutely loved dressing up and would get very excited when I would bring out the tiaras.

Coco Chanel received attention everywhere she went. Picture Glenn Hampson

“Coco loved having her hair coloured for events and relished in getting a lot of attention.
“She changed the course of our lives with all the charity work and she did so much good in the world.”

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Coco Chanel was a regular fixture as the face of the Cooly Rocks On festival and the star of the parade, often riding in the back of a pink Cadillac smiling proudly.

Coco in her trailer. Picture Glenn Hampson

She has travelled around Australia in her decked out pink and white caravan for music festivals and events and has appeared on television show Bondi Vet.

She raised thousands of dollars over the years for various charities including the Animal Welfare League, Breast Cancer Foundation and other animal welfare organisations.
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“She was such an iconic girl and she made an impact where ever she went,” said Mrs Zocchi.

“No matter where she was, she would get recognised as the pink poodle from the Gold Coast.

“Her best friend Cassie is missing her terribly.
“It is absolutely devastating.”

Coco Chanel was “always smiling” and bringing smiles to others.

When Coco Chanel wasn’t dolled up at events, she loved nothing more than frolicking on the beach and swimming in the water.

“She was a beautiful soul who gave everything she had,” she said.
“She will be sadly missed.”