Welcome Neighhhhbours! CCG Warragul Staff, Students and Flock Welcome New Equine Friends
After years of neglect, two special new neighbours have arrived at the Community College Gippsland (CCG) Warragul campus. CCG is thrilled to have Goose and Paris, two rescued horses from Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria (PHHWV). In partnership with PHHWV, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing hope to horses through education, advocacy, rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming, CCG is proud to provide a safe and caring home for these remarkable animals.
PHHWV has a long-standing history of supporting horses in need, and CCG is excited to collaborate on this important cause. The two horses joining the CCG family are:
Goose – a 9-year-old mixed-breed pony from Newham, known for his affectionate and gentle nature. Goose enjoys grooming his paddock mates and warmly greeting visitors at the gate. He interacts calmly with children, is composed around animals and machinery like tractors and mowers and remains unshaken in unfamiliar situations.
Paris – a 17-year-old Standardbred mare, came from Yackandandah, She shares Goose’s calm demeanour. Paris enjoys being groomed and is unfazed by cars, tractors, or dogs.
To prepare for the horses’ arrival, CCG Trades Training Pathways students, led by their trainer David Fussell, ensured that the campus fencing was properly repaired and secure. This hands-on project allowed students to apply their skills in a real-world setting, while also contributing to the care and safety of Goose and Paris.
Both Goose and Paris were rescued after enduring years of neglect, and their rehabilitation is a testament to the care and dedication of PHHWV. Now, these wonderful animals are part of the vibrant CCG Warragul campus community. Thanks to the expert care of experienced horse person Tracey Coates, who has generously volunteered her time, the horses will receive ongoing care while also providing new opportunities for interaction with students and staff. Not only will Goose and Paris help keep the campus environment in check, alongside the existing flock of sheep, but they will also bring joy and therapeutic benefits. Tracey believes that horses offer a unique connection with humans, helping to relieve anxiety and stress through their gentle presence.
Special thanks go to Dale Gemmell (CEO), Mark Kelly (Facilities Manager), and Peter Coats (Facilities Officer) for their dedication to making this project a reality.
Dale Gemmell, CEO of Community College Gippsland said “We are very pleased to be members of Project Hope and provide care for Goose and Paris. This project reflects our commitment to fostering a nurturing and enriching environment for our students and staff. Once settled in, we hope to see Goose and Paris positively impacting the mental health and wellbeing of our campus community.”
For more information about Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria and their inspiring work, visit https://www.phhwv.org.au or contact CCG on 03 5622 6000 or visit https://ccg.asn.au.
Media enquiries:
Irasha White
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Community College Gippsland
03 5622 6000