For the first time, Assistance Dogs Australia (ADA) will feature assistance dog puppies in the Grafton Jacaranda Festival Parade on November 1, 2025. The puppies, adorned with purple crowns, will be accompanied by the ADA team, community carers, and staff from Serco, marking a vibrant addition to the festival.
Unique Training Program
Assistance Dogs Australia collaborates with the Serco-operated Clarence Correctional Centre near Grafton to implement a unique training program. Inmates at the facility are matched with assistance dog puppies, becoming their trainers and carers. This innovative approach allows the puppies to experience a nurturing environment while developing essential skills.
Every three weeks, the pups rotate from the correctional centre to the homes of community volunteers. This arrangement exposes them to everyday life, including family routines, shopping trips, and visits to local parks. Such interactions are crucial for building the puppies’ confidence and adaptability, preparing them for their future roles as assistance dogs.
Meet the Puppies at the Festival
Festival attendees will have the opportunity to meet these adorable puppies at the ADA market stall. Visitors can engage with the team and community carers to learn about the journey these pups undergo to become life-changing assistance dogs for individuals with disabilities. The event also provides information for those interested in volunteering as community carers.
Stephanie Purnell from Assistance Dogs Australia highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “The partnership with the Clarence Correctional Centre not only benefits the puppies but also provides valuable skills and experiences for the inmates.”
The inclusion of assistance dog puppies in the Jacaranda Festival Parade symbolizes a commitment to enhancing community awareness about the vital role these dogs play in supporting individuals with disabilities. This initiative reflects a broader effort to foster connections between the community and the training program.
Attendees are encouraged to come down to the festival and witness the joy these puppies bring, while also considering the potential to contribute as a volunteer in this impactful program.
