Rockhampton Regional Council is inviting the community to visit the 2026 Pet Expo and stop by the Local Laws stall where families can take a photo with the beloved Local Laws characters Tom and Tahnee while enjoying a massive day celebrating the region's love for pets.
Planning and Regulation Councillor Grant Mathers said everyone was invited to attend the free event on Saturday 5 September to find out about 'Tom and Tahnee', visit market stalls, take part in pet competitions and plenty more.
"There will be many drawcards at this year's Expo including Tom and Tahnee, Sir Dobby the skateboarding cat, the Dashi Dash dachshund race, Dog High Jump competitions, best and worst dressed pets and owners, food vendors, kids' activities and market stalls from local pet businesses," said Cr Mathers.
Tom and Tahnee are an animated character duo that have been used in Council's Local Laws campaigns in regional schools since 2018 to educate young people about safety around dogs and being healthy and happy around pets.
"Their rap song, 'Pause, Be Safe Around Dogs' is a fun way for our Local Laws team to show young children how to behave around unknown dogs," said Cr Mathers.
"Council also has two children's books featuring Tom and Tahnee where they teach important messages about how to safely approach dogs, what to do if a dog makes them feel uncomfortable or scared, and how to reduce the risk of dog bites and attacks."
"They also cover topics such as pet health and hygiene, as well as the responsibilities that come with owning a pet.
"Council's Local Laws unit is responsible for animal management, and the education campaigns in local schools aim to support increased awareness about responsible pet management and thus reduced animal management issues in future.
"Our Local Laws team handles around 2,200 animal related incidents each year, which is why our education campaign is such an integral part of the work Council does."
The 2026 Pet Expo is on Saturday 5 September from 9am to 2pm at the Robert Schwarten Pavilion, Rockhampton Showgrounds, New Exhibition Road, Wandal.
To register for competitions prior including the Dashi Dash dachshund race please visit 2026-Pet-Expo.
Entry to expo is free, with registrations for competitions also be accepted on the day, until 10am.
This is an on-lead dog event.
