It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Don Graham, a highly respected GAP volunteer, who passed away on Sunday 17 February.
Don and his wife Jenny began adopting greyhounds in 2001 and became heavily involved with the Greyhound Adoption Program. They were dedicated, long-time volunteers who fostered many greyhounds and attended countless GAP events, including the Royal Melbourne Show and GAP Adoption Days. The couple became a staple of the program and their tireless volunteer work helped a lot of greyhounds find homes.
Don and Jenny are renowned for having many greyhounds at a time in their Carrum Downs home and for their genuine desire to help retired greyhounds become pets. Over the years, they have truly become a part of the GAP family and their outstanding contribution received well-deserved recognition in 2013 when they received the Chairman’s Award at the Greyhound Industry Awards Night.
Don was a softly-spoken man with a real passion for the breed. We will remember him as a greyhound whisperer, who was happy to share his knowledge and experience with others. At events, he would often start friendly conversations with prospective adopters and introduce them to one of his many greyhounds.
Described by GAP staff as a compassionate man who ‘loved the hounds’, Don didn’t just talk the talk, he walked the walk. Don and Jenny have done so much for individual dogs and the breed as a whole.
Don was an incredible man and his kindness and generosity shone through when he was with his dogs. He will be missed by many including all those in the GAP community whose lives he has touched.