Ahoy! Call out for dogs and cats who love the sea

Monday, 10 February 2025

We’re on the hunt for pet lovers and their furry friends who love adventuring along the ocean.

Whether it’s a water loving dog, a cat in a stroller for a Waterfront walk or even chooks who can surf at Ocean Grove, we want to see your photos of how you enjoy the sea with your beloved pets.

The National Wool Museum will use these fun pics for a slideshow projection as part of the upcoming Cats and Dogs All At Sea exhibition, running from this Friday 14 February until Sunday 20 July.

Submit your photograph before Monday 14 July for a chance to be featured, with all submissions going in the running to win one of five family memberships to the Museum.

The Australian National Maritime Museum touring exhibition features 23 photographs by Sydney photographer Sam Hood, who captured just how much dogs and cats were cherished by those on sea voyages during 1900-1950s.

Hood took hundreds of photographs of crew members for souvenirs of their visit or to send home to families. In a life from which children and families were very much missed, pets provided a focus for emotions and affection.

In addition to Hood’s photographs, the exhibition features 40 objects from the Geelong Naval and Maritime Collection, including celestial navigation tools, a ship builder’s model of the SS Courier and a photograph album documenting the 1934 Royal Cruise of HMAS Australia II with the Duke of Gloucester and his dogs.

As you delve into this evocative exhibition, it’s also worth checking out the world-renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year 60 exhibition on loan from the Natural History Museum London.

Featuring fascinating animal behaviour and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world, the images shine a light on stories and species around the world and encourage the community to advocate for the planet.

Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM

I encourage community members to share their favourite photos of their pets by the sea.

Greater Geelong has one of the largest animal populations of any Victorian municipality, with around 38,000 cats and dogs registered.

They bring us so much joy, so we would love to see how your furry friends enjoy our beautiful coastline, as well as seaside spots outside the region.

National Wool Museum Director Padraic Fisher

We're keen for the community to join in and be a part of their Museum.

This is your chance to be part of the Cats and Dogs All at Sea exhibition, share your story and celebrate your animal companion.

So, come aboard, join the fun and be part of the crew at your Museum.

You might also win one of five family memberships to the Museum for 2025.




Page last updated: Tuesday, 11 February 2025

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