The 62 model dolphins that have been on display around Guernsey all summer will be removed this week, before going on to their permanent homes later this month.
The public art exhibition has been raising money for the GSPCA and Autism Guernsey, with support from 62 sponsors and hundreds of creatives helping to decorate each dolphin.
More than 1,000 people have used the Turfhunt app to find all of the dolphins, with many more also visiting them on location across Guernsey and Herm.
The dolphins will be packed away this week so they can be cleaned and any repairs carried out before they go to auction – to raise even more money for the two charities.
The GSPCA helps animals by working to prevent cruelty, to rescue animals in distress, to provide shelter for strays, and to foster and encourage kindness and consideration in the treatment of animals and birds, whether domestic or wild.
Autism Guernsey works towards increasing awareness, understanding, and acceptance of autism in Guernsey while providing meaningful support to autistic people, their families, and professionals.
Both charities need to raise tens of thousands of pounds each year to fund their core services, with additional funds needed for other essential work streams and infrastructure.
Andrew Sparkes, Director of Autism Guernsey, said it has been a wonderful event to be involved with, and will raise lots of money so their work can continue.
“The trail has brought joy, colour, and community spirit to Guernsey. We’re thrilled with the response and grateful to all the sponsors, artists, and supporters. The funds raised will make a real difference to those we support, and we can’t wait to celebrate the dolphins at the upcoming events.”
While the dolphins are being removed from public view ahead of the auction, some will be at the Charities’ Seafront Sunday on 14 September for a final chance for everyone to see them.
The Dolphin Discovery Trail has followed in the footsteps of other similar initiatives featuring models of puffins, cows, donkeys, and goats.
Once auctioned it’s anticipated that some of the dolphins will join others from those past events on public display across the island in the long term.
Steve Byrne, the GSPCA Manager, said the only way to secure your ownership of one of the dolphins is to bid in the auction on 17 September at the Peninsula Hotel.
“We are delighted to announce we are now taking reserve bids for the 62 dolphins in aid of the GSPCA and Autism Guernsey,” he said.
“It’s been incredible to see so many people enjoying the Dolphin Discovery Trail and supporting two fantastic causes.
“With only a few days left, we encourage everyone to get out and find these stunning works of art before they’re collected. We did have a little issue with the app with a few people but we are delighted to announce it is resolved.
“We’re excited to showcase many of them at Charities Seafront Sunday and look forward to the auction where they’ll find new homes. Tickets officially go on sale in the next day or so so watch this space as they are limited”
This weekend is also your last chance to win a Champagne Afternoon Tea with Le Pommier Hotel by entering our selfie competition with Flippertron.
As the official media partner for The Dolphin Discovery Trail, Bailiwick Express Guernsey was thrilled to launch this exclusive competition to celebrate our sponsored dolphin, Flippertron, which has been proudly on display at Le Pommier Hotel all summer.
To enter our selfie competition to win the indulgent Champagne Afternoon Tea for two at Le Pommier Hotel you simply need to strike a pose and snap a selfie with Flippertron and full out the form HERE.