Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre (HBNC) is proud to partner with K9 Socialisation & Training and Fraser Coast Regional Council (FCRC) to deliver Paws & People, a community-focused program supporting responsible pet ownership, animal wellbeing, and social connection across the Fraser Coast.

Paws & People is a practical and inclusive program designed to support both pets and their people through accessible learning, hands-on experiences, and opportunities for connection. The program includes dog and puppy obedience training, pet care education, animal enrichment sessions, free microchipping for dogs and cats, and community events such as Paws in the Park.

Through this partnership, HBNC brings together community learning expertise, professional animal training services, and local government leadership to ensure the program is evidence-based, welcoming, and responsive to local community needs.

“Paws & People is about more than pet education,” said Michaela Davis, Local Learning Network Team Leader at HBNC. “It’s about connection — helping people feel confident caring for their animals, supporting positive behaviour and socialisation, and creating safe, inclusive spaces where pets and their people can connect with others in the community.”

K9 Socialisation & Training delivers specialist dog obedience and socialisation sessions, supporting positive behaviour, confidence, and safe interactions between animals and their owners.

FCRC plays a key role in delivering community education through animal enrichment sessions, Paws in the Park events, and free microchipping for dogs. Council’s involvement supports responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and compliance with local regulations, while encouraging positive engagement between residents, pets, and public spaces.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Animal Management spokesperson Cr John Weiland said programs like Paws & People play an important role in helping residents become confident, responsible pet owners.

“Most people want to do the right thing by their pets and their community, and education is the key to making that happen,” he said.

“By giving people practical skills and advice — from training and socialisation through to understanding their responsibilities as pet owners — we can prevent issues before they arise and help keep both animals and residents safe.

“Microchipping is also critical. We regularly see animals come into our facilities that aren’t microchipped or have outdated details, which makes it harder to reunite with their owners.

“Providing free microchipping through programs like this removes barriers and helps ensure more lost pets can be returned home quickly.”

Together, the partnership aims to:

• Improve animal wellbeing, behaviour, and enrichment
• Support responsible and informed pet ownership
• Reduce barriers to accessing essential pet services
• Encourage positive socialisation for animals and people
• Strengthen community connection through shared experiences

Paws & People sessions are delivered through a mix of free and low-cost workshops and events at community locations including The Neighbourhood Hive and local parks across the Fraser Coast.

For upcoming sessions and bookings, visit www.hbnc.com.au.