The first organised Robertson dog walk took place on October 2 in conjunction with the annual waratah festival held at the Robertson Heritage Railway Station.

Along with the walk there was also plenty for two-legged participants to do.

This included a floral art exhibition, waratah displays, brass band music, coffee, food, a ride-on mini train, model train displays, vintage farm machinery and a return train ride from Robertson to Moss Vale.

People came from all over the Southern Highlands to enjoy a day out their dogs and some sunshine.

There were three walks- 800m, 1.5km and 2.2km- which catered to all abilities.

Event organiser Lyndy Scott said the inaugural event had been a great success.

Veterinary practices from across the Southern Highlands sponsored the event and they, plus others, donated generous prizes.

Ms Scott said raffles of high-end dog products were very popular and wonderful fundraisers.

Close to $700 was raised on the day and Ms Scott said they also received more funds from sponsorships.

She said funds raised from next year’s event would go to various dog organisations.

Sponsors for the event included Bowral Veterinary Hospital, Berrima District Veterinary Hospital, Helen McNall from Well Being for Dog, ProVet Veterinary Wholesalers, Love’em and Coco and Pud.

She also thanked members of the Robertson Heritage Railway Station who helped organise the walk.

There were more than 46 dogs and 56 people plus two children with dog toys who turned to the event and all exceptionally well behaved.

”It was excellent to combine the walk with festivities on Robertson Common with waratahs blooming, vintage trains, art show, rides, human food and water bowls for dogs,” Ms Scott said.

She said she hoped to organise another event next year which would likely be on the October long weekend.

The aim of the event is to become an annual celebration of dogs, owners and their bond as well as socialisation and exercise for everyone.

The month of October also includes Be kind to animals week, Walktober and Dogtober which tied in well with the inaugural event.