Outback pubs, dusty racetracks, and pigs with surprising speed — only in Queensland could such a combination raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for life-changing causes. Over two unforgettable weekends, Blue Dog Training had the privilege of supporting two of the state’s most iconic community fundraisers: the Nindigully Pig Races followed by the Sandy Creek Pig Races.
Each event had its own charm, its own characters, and its own incredible community spirit — but both shared a powerful purpose: raising vital funds for charities that support people right across regional and remote Queensland.
Nindigully Pig Races: A Legendary Outback Tradition Supporting the RFDS
The journey began at the historic Nindigully Pub — Queensland’s oldest continually licensed pub and the beating heart of one of the most-loved fundraising events in the state. Every year, the tiny town of Nindigully swells with visitors, travellers, families and locals who gather for a day of dusty racetracks, auction bidding wars, and entertainment only an outback pub can deliver.
This year, the community rallied harder than ever, helping raise:
💙 Over $113,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service
For people living in rural and remote areas, the RFDS is nothing short of a lifeline. Beyond its lifesaving emergency flights, the RFDS delivers:
-
Primary health care
-
Mental health support
-
Dental services
-
Telehealth appointments
-
Community clinics
-
Essential medical transport
These services ensure families who live hundreds of kilometres from major towns still receive the care, treatment and support they depend on. That’s why Blue Dog Training is so proud to stand behind the Nindigully event — because its impact stretches far beyond race day.
The atmosphere was unforgettable: kids leaning over fences cheering for their favourite pig, travellers swapping stories at the pub, and auction paddles flying high as generosity took centre stage. It was community spirit in its purest form — lively, loud, and full of heart.
Sandy Creek Pig Races: A Weekend of Mateship, Generosity and Good Old Country Fun
Just one week later, the excitement continued at the iconic Darling Downs Hotel, better known as the Sandy Creek Pub — home to another beloved pig racing tradition. The Blue Dog Training Car 350 team rolled in with one goal: to make a meaningful difference, and the community responded with incredible enthusiasm.
By the end of the day, Sandy Creek saw:
✨ Over $45,000 raised for Variety – the Children’s Charity
✨ Plus $2,870 donated to the local CWA ladies
Variety’s mission is one that resonates deeply with us. These funds will help provide essential equipment, therapy, grants, scholarships and life-changing opportunities for children who are sick, disadvantaged or living with disability. Every raffle ticket, every bid, and every donation contributed to changing young lives.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the businesses who generously supported the event:
Craig Mullaly Pty Ltd, Percy's Fruit Market, Meathouse – Pine Tree Prime Pty Ltd, R & K Takeaway, Bretto's Mobile Automotive, Jake Seibel Handyman and Contracting, Electrical Worx Warwick, and to C & C Plasma Creations and Blackall Street Butchery for donating auction items.
The atmosphere was buzzing — friendly banter, local pride, and that infectious energy that only a country pub fundraiser can produce. It was a weekend defined by laughter, generosity, and genuine connection.
Why These Events Matter to Blue Dog Training
Both weekends proved one thing: Queensland communities know how to come together for a cause. At Blue Dog Training, supporting regional, rural and remote communities is more than a value — it’s part of our identity.
Many of our apprentices, trainers and partners live in the very towns these charities support. By backing events like Nindigully and Sandy Creek, we’re helping ensure:
-
More kids receive the support they deserve
-
More families access essential healthcare
-
More regional communities remain strong and connected
-
More beloved outback traditions continue for generations
These pig races might be light-hearted and larrikin-filled, but behind the fun lies real impact — and that’s what motivates us year after year.
Looking Ahead With Gratitude
From the red-dirt dust of Nindigully to the warm hospitality of Sandy Creek, this month has been a powerful reminder of what community can achieve. Blue Dog Training is incredibly proud to stand beside Variety, the RFDS and the local organisations that make these events possible.
Here’s to more good times, more great causes and plenty more pigs crossing the finish line for charity.
