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reader ’ s digest 6   JUNE/JUly 2026 Contemplating receiving a Guide Dog “I wanted a dog who was extroverted, because I was introverted,” says Charlotte. “And that’s exactly the kind of dog I was matched with.” When Charlotte was in Year 12, she was thinking about getting a Guide Dog, but she wasn’t so sure. She grew up shy and introverted, very family oriented and with a love of learning and helping others. Her twin sister has always been by her side, and her nanna played a big part in her life. So much so that when she applied for her first Guide Dog, her nanna predicted the exact dog she would receive. Being a long-term supporter of Guide Dogs, after attending a Guide Dog Graduation Ceremony, Charlotte’s nanna called her and said, “there is a dog here that would be perfect for you!” Around one week later, Charlotte was matched with that very Guide Dog, Bronte. “It was meant to be”, Charlotte said. “Bronte was there for a lot of firsts with my nanna, who has now passed,” says Charlotte. “Our first beach walk, first bush walk and first Navigating young adulthood with a Guide Dog is truly something special: Charlotte and her Guide Dogs, Bronte and Hollie. story supplied by Guide Dogs Australia MY STORY PHOTO CREDIT: GUIDE DOGS AUSTRALIA readersdigest.com.au     7 My Story