Almost fifteen years ago, Sunshine Beach Surf Club was the first to host what was then a small fundraiser with big plans.
On that day, one hundred attendees gathered to enjoy a special event while raising awareness and funds for Smart Pups, a not-for-profit charity based in Queensland.
Smart Pups has come a long way since then. Last month 470 guests celebrated the sold-out 2025 Smart Pups Fundraising Luncheon, now considered a prime hospitality charity event, at the Paddo Tavern in Brisbane.
The event was a not-to-be-missed occasion, with a lineup including Smart Pups patron Dawn Fraser AC MBE, three-time world surfing champion Mick Fanning AO, bush poet Murray Hartin and Australian musician Diesel.
Seven-year-old Brock’s family was also part of the event, sharing their life-changing story of Brock’s assistance dog Digger, who was sponsored by Club Ipswich.
Smart Pups is now Australia’s leading provider of assistance dogs, and one of the first to train assistance dogs for children and teens as well as for those with special needs such as autism and seizures.
This year’s event raised an impressive $211,825.
Adding to that generous support, the Queensland Government matched the amount by donating a further $200,000, presented to the charity by Attorney General the Hon. Deb Frecklington.
The not-for-profit charity relies solely on sponsorships, partnerships, grants, and donations to continue its work.
Major sponsors of Smart Pups include organisations such as Clubs Queensland, the Lion Richlands, Jets Leagues Club, Norths Devils Leagues Club, Norths Leagues & Services Club, and Sunshine Beach Surf Club along with many other sponsors and partners.
This year’s luncheon once again proved to be more than just a premier event for the hospitality industry—it was a powerful testimony to the inspiring work clubs are doing to strengthen communities, foster generosity, and create meaningful, lasting change.
