SUCCESSFUL 1 000 PAWS WALK

There was no shortage of wagging tails, happy faces and community spirit when the 2026 Hill’s 1 000 Paws Walk took place at Highgate Wine Estate near Piggly Wiggly on 7 June. The popular annual fundraiser attracted 194 dogs, 339 adults and 71 children, all coming together to support the Mooi River & District, uMngeni and Pietermaritzburg SPCAs.

With clear blue skies and warm winter sunshine, the event offered the perfect opportunity for families and their four legged companions to enjoy a day outdoors while helping local animals in need Participants chose between a gentle 2km “Puppies and Pensioners” walk through the vineyards or a more energetic 4km “Adults and Athletes” route, both showcasing the beautiful Midlands countryside. The fun continued throughout the day with arena competitions, including a crowd-pleasing dog and-owner look-alike contest, an agility Fun Zone, and lively performances by the Clifton Prep School marimba band.

Visitors also enjoyed browsing a variety of stalls, taking part in raffles and winning exciting prizes. Natalie Marcovich won a two night stay at Cathedral Peak Hotel, Lee Pope-Ellis received a getaway to The Cavern Drakensberg Resort & Spa, while Tracey Marshall won a stay at Champagne Sports Resort. Pippa Rafferty took top honours in the Paper Plate Sniffer Dog Challenge and walked away with a getaway to Cleopatra’s Mountain Farmhouse.

The annual walk has become a much-loved fixture on the Midlands calendar, celebrating the special bond between people and their pets while helping provide care, shelter and second chances for animals in need.

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