History

The concept of Labrador Indulgence Day began in Ballarat 1998 at Morsehead Park. A group of chocolate Labrador enthusiasts decided to see how many chocolate Labradors we could gather together in one place. Invitations were sent out and the word was spread around-we even had some folk attend from NSW.  The day was then called Chocolate Labrador Social Day!

Ten years ago the chocolate Labrador was much rarer than it is today in 2008, so we were delighted to have approx 80 chocolate and a “sprinkling of yellow and black attend.  The highlight of the day was to attempt to get all the dogs lined up for a photo- quite a task believe me.  However the day was a huge success and although we did not make a financial profit –we managed to cover our outlay expenses. 

Almost all of those attending were pet owners – and as the day was such a hit that by popular demand the idea of an annual event grew – one of our Labrador people (Sue Kull) has worked for years raising money for the Cancer Council of Victoria Research under the umbrella of the Relay for Life –“Maggie May Team” so we then decided to turn “a day of fun “into a fundraiser for them.

The name was changed to “Chocolate Indulgence Day” – and later on changed again to Labrador Indulgence Day embracing all the colours of the breed- we also included “Labrador friends” – which means any breed of dog is welcome ( provided they are “under control” of course)

The venues have been Albert Park Lake and Mt Macedon Winery –this year it will be held at St. Anne’s Winery on the Western Highway.

We have not been a formal committee – just a group of Labrador Lovers.

Each year we have improved – and raised more money for the Victorian Cancer Council.  The “Slow Auction” has become a popular part of the day to look forward to-all goods are donated.  We have had some interesting  guest speakers –i.e. Australia Customs- Vets all Natural –  Muscle Therapy For Dogs etc. – the games time for the dogs has become another highlight of the day- we have had obedience demonstrations – doggy dancing- a variety of stalls selling “doggy things”.

The Mt Macedon Country Fire Brigade has provided Sausage Sizzles /Coffee/Tea at the Mt Macedon Winery days - which also helped with their own fund-raising efforts!   In other words these days have helped two worth while causes!

Some of the original organising group are still involved – some are not – for various reason – i.e. raising young families etc. work commitments etc.

I think special mention should be made of some of those from the beginning who have given so much of their time over the past years.

Dan and Louise Haintz – Ballarat.  –now busy raising a family.

Louise and Mal O’Brien—Shepparton - Lou was our first photographer

Pam Gregg—Catraz Labradors- Woodend.  (Actually! Pam was responsible for securing the Mt Macedon Winery free of charge and special thanks must go to Pam for all her work in helping organise the days in previous years. Also Pam’s sister- Coral for helping organise food for special guests!

Carol and Stuart den Buetelair—Carol has made special “Labrador” gifts for auction.

Geoff and Trudy Wilson- --Blackrange Labradors – Geoff and Trudy have helped out on the gate .

There have been many others who have given their time and effort as well.  Thank you to all!

Simone and Darren Wilkie- of Wilgunndi Labradors

Megan Semple—Alanglen Labradors

Rebecca and Craig Clemenger

Robyn Brock

 

Written by Marj Deignan, July 2008.