Proceeds from the gate will go to the work of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, the leading provider of guide dogs and orientation and mobility services that enable people with impaired vision to get around their communities safely and independently.

The picnic will feature celebrity veterinarian Dr. Katrina and The Wonderdogs’ trick shows and training demonstrations, pet pampering, grooming, stalls and competitions.

Pepper Tree Wines started the annual event four years ago in honour of winemakers and their pets.

Chief winemaker Scott Comyns’s dog Dexter spends his days wandering the winery’s grounds and offices.

“As there are not many places you can take your best friend for an outing, and following the success of our Pepper Tree Pet Club, we wanted to create a relaxed family and dog-friendly event,” Pepper Tree Wines marketing assistant Michelle Preece said.

“This year we decided the gold coin gate entry fee would go to the work of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.”

Guide Dogs’ fundraising manager Leila Davis said the organisation is financially dependent on the generosity of Aust­ralians and any donation people can make is incredibly valuable. 

“Events like Pepper Tree Wines Pooch Picnic enable us to provide our guide dogs free of charge to people who need them,” Ms. Davis said.

“With demand for guide dogs increasing due to growing numbers of people having trouble getting around due to vision loss, we are incredibly grateful for the support we receive.”

Ms. Davis said funds raised would help people with vision loss to enjoy the freedom and independence of having a guide dog.

“There are currently more than 40 people on the waiting list for a guide dog and we rely on the public’s generosity to fund the more than $35,000 it costs to breed and train each dog,” she said.

The Pooch Picnic will run from 10.30am to 3.30pm Sunday in the Sobels Wines grounds on Halls Road, Pokolbin.

Entry is by gold coin location and dogs must be on a leash. Bring your own rugs, chairs and dog tidy bags.