SLIDESHOW - God' Creatures in the Garden was held in honour of World Animal Day, and as a fundraiser for the Grand Bahama Humane Society. The Garden of the Groves was the ideal location for such an event, and all entrance and food monies were donated to the GB Humane Society. The event held on October 12th focussed around local families and their pets coming together for an animal blessing as well as an afternoon and evening of good times. Photos: Robbin Whachell

Grand Bahama Island - The sun was shining as people and their pets arrived (many for their first visit) to the Garden of the Groves to support the Grand Bahama Humane Society. The event was postponed from the original date of World Animal Day on October 4th, due to poor weather, and was held instead on Sunday, October 12th.

The focal point of the event was the animal blessing held beside the St. Francis of Assisi (the patron saint of animals) statue in the newly restored gardens. Father Rudolph Cooper of St. Stephens Anglican Church of Eight Mile Rock was on hand to offer a blessing and walked amongst the animals after to touch each one with holy water. In attendance were many puppies and dogs, Geronimo the horse from Pinetree Stables, and even a turtle, which was later released into the pond by the Russell family.

SLIDESHOW - Kids enjoy the playground area of Garden of the Groves with facepainting by Olivia Dorsett, horse rides by Pintree Stables, and the fabulous new playground set. Photos: Robbin Whachell

As people continued to enter the grounds throughout the late afternoon, there was plenty to do and see. The new playground area was a hit with the children, and it was also the location for face painting, courtesy of Olivia Dorsett, and horse rides provided by Annie Roberts of Pinetree Stables.

A scavenger hunt and games were held for the children and a basic obedience demonstration by Beth Hatfield was offered. The Human Society had a raffle with great prizes as well as sold memberships, along with their wares also available at the shelter, like their popular homemade dog treats. Photos with your pett were also offered.

Scrumptious food and beverages kept flowing at the Lofty Fig Cafe run by Julie Ryan and her staff. All their time was volunteered and between Julie, Yolanda and GBHS president Chris Johnston, the burger, salmon and steak flipping never seemed to stop. The crowds enjoyed live entertainment by Jens Peter Sweeting, and later by Sheena Moree and the Sunland Kids.

SLIDESHOW - What the day was all about - sharing an outing WITH your pet. Epitomized here by young Jack Jennings who wanted to share the slide with one of his family pets. Photos: Robbin Whachell

The event offered those gathered the opportunity to not only support the GB Humane Society but a chance to explore every area of the extensive Gardens.

All the proceeds from gate admittance (and food) were donated to the GB Humane Society from the Garden of the Groves.

The next event at the Garden of the Groves is their Halloween party on October 31st  for Garden Members. To become a member forms are available and can be handed in at the Garden entrance. The form is also attached below. For further info, call 374-7778.

© Copyright 2008 by thebahamasweekly.com

Top of Page