After 30 years of Australians and their furry friends pounding the pavement to fight animal cruelty, the RSPCA is preparing for the final Million Paws Walk event in May 2025.
Over the last three decades, more than 750,000 passionate animal lovers and their 400,000 canine companions have participated in Million Paws Walk, raising a phenomenal $17 million to support animals in need. The first Million Paws Walk event took place in Queensland and has grown into a beloved national event for two and four-legged friends alike.
However, the financial strain on animal lovers and increasing event costs have prompted the RSPCA’s difficult decision to hang up Million Paws Walk’s leash for the final time.
On Sunday, May 25, animal lovers can get involved with final events being held across the country, including right here on the Fraser Coast. A community highlight in recent years, the Hervey Bay event has supported RSPCA Queensland in 2017, 2023 and 2024. This year, everyone is invited to join a memorable final celebration of all creatures great and small at Dayman Park (Lower) in Urangan.
Mindy Thorpe, a dedicated RSPCA volunteer from Urangan, has been instrumental in coordinating the Hervey Bay Million Paws Walk. Over the years, this local event has raised over $10,500 to directly support the RSPCA’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals. Mindy aims to see a record turnout of 100 participants for this last lap, making it a truly memorable occasion.
“We encourage everyone to step up as a superhero for animals in need and join us for the final ‘walkies’ in May,” Mindy said. “Everyone is welcome to participate, even if you don’t have a dog. Come along to Dayman Park for a fantastic morning out and help raise essential funds for animals as we celebrate the last Million Paws Walk!”
The event will kick off with registration opening at 7:00 AM, followed by a leisurely 1.6km walk at 8:00 am. Attendees can look forward to a morning filled with tail-wagging fun, including pet-friendly market stalls, games, and raffles – all while supporting a cause that resonates deeply with many.
This is a powerful opportunity for families and animal lovers in the Hervey Bay area to come together and unite in their shared commitment to animal welfare – standing together against cruelty and walking one more time to help vulnerable animals that turn to RSPCA for their second chance every year.
As preparations for the final event get underway, the RSPCA is encouraging everyone to get involved and be a special part of Million Paws Walk history. You can register early at www.millionpawswalk.com.au/herveybay.
