Looking for love of the four-legged kind? Melbourne’s much-loved greyhound rescue group, Gumtree Greys, is hosting a one-of-a-kind “Speed Dating” event at Abbotsford Convent on Sunday 9 November from 10am to 1pm.
The event invites dog lovers to meet and mingle with adoptable greyhounds in search of their forever homes – and maybe find the perfect match, snout to snout.
Taking place on the Clarke Street Lawn, this meet-and-greet gives visitors a chance to connect with the gentle, goofy personalities behind the sleek racing image. Attendees can chat with volunteers, learn what life is like with a rescued racer, and spend quality time with the hounds in a relaxed, grassy setting. There’ll also be prizes, treats (including the famous Freedom Nuggets), and plenty of cuddles on offer.
Gumtree Greys is a Melbourne-based volunteer organisation dedicated to rescuing greyhounds and raising awareness about their suitability as family pets. With around 4,000 greyhounds bred for racing each year in Australia and many retired or deemed unsuitable to race, the group provides a crucial bridge between the racing industry and loving homes.
The event highlights just how easy greyhounds are to fall for – they’re quiet, affectionate, and famously fond of lounging, often sleeping up to 20 hours a day. Despite their racing past, they make perfect pets for city living, equally content on a short stroll or stretched out on the couch.
Whether you’re ready to adopt or simply curious about these graceful companions, Gumtree Greys’ “Speed Dating” event is a warm, welcoming introduction to life with one of Melbourne’s most easy-going dogs.
Details: Sunday 9 November, 10am–1pm, Clarke St Lawn, Abbotsford Convent.
Event info: gumtreegreys.com.au/events/greyhound-speed-dating
