There was no sign of winter’s discontent out the front of Tea Gardens Coles on the last day of the cold season, as local contingents from two major Australian charities set up to ring in spring.

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The last day of ‘Pawgust’ for Guide Dogs Australia, and the annual VIEW Father’s Day raffle, were held in the shaded, balmy entrance as the seasons flicked over.

Team members from Tea Gardens Coles, led by Seleana, raised money with ‘Bark-B-Q’ sausages, a guessing competition, and a bake sale, the contents of which were lovingly made by the local Coles staff, including many a cake and slice, and Jodie’s adorable puppy-cupcakes.

“Guide Dogs Australia encourages people to walk or run a set target of 60 kilometres (km), 100km or 125km, raising money and awareness via sponsors, and feeling ‘pawsome’ while they are ‘suppawting’ Guide Dogs,” Seleana told NOTA.

The puns were unashamedly omnipresent, as they sought to end winter with a bang, not a whimper.

The local Myall River VIEW ladies hosted their annual Father’s Day raffle right alongside, tempted by the Bark-B-Q aromas, presenting three massive hampers for some lucky dads and their ticket-wielding loved ones.

“The prizes include everything a man needs to get the job done… and some things for his partner, too,” explained VIEW President Hilary Gall.

“We’d like to thank Bunnings for the buckets, the Hawks Nest Golf Club for donating some nice golf trips, and so many of the VIEW members for donating, as well as setting up to volunteer here on the day.”

There was even a pedicure voucher for the discerning dad.

The raffles were drawn by local Fire & Rescue and Coles team member Derryn, the winnings going to Gavin Scott (1st), Denis Whitely (2nd), and Katie Tanswell (3rd).

By Thomas O’KEEFE