Bendigo residents fight animal cruelty during the RSPCA's Cupcake Day

Kicking off on Monday, the event unites people across the nation to raise funds and awareness around animal welfare.

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Ms Downing said she has already raised over $600 for the organisation.

"I raised the money by myself and I did so by offering six and 12 packs of the cupcakes to family and friends," she said.

"This is my third year doing and I love to bake so I figured it was a great way to combine my interests and my skills and raise money for the RSPCA and support all of the animals."

Ms Downing said the day was important to highlight all the positive things the RSPCA do for animals across Australia.

"It was important to continue to fundraise because without them many animals would suffer and wouldn't have anywhere to go," she said.

"As we have seen with the lockdowns, many animals need homes and they really need lots of support."

RSPCA Victoria typically raises around $230,000 annually to help care for the 20,000 animals that enter its shelters on average every year.

RSPCA Victoria chief executive Liz Walker said these funds were needed more than ever before.

"This is the time to roll up your sleeves and put your cooking skills to the test for a very worthy cause," she said.

"Knowing that you're raising funds for thousands of animals in need and joining like-minded animal lovers around the country adds another level of joy to cooking."

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Ms Walker said the day unites people who care about animal welfare - their efforts help to ensure we can continue to care for vulnerable animals and investigate cases of cruelty.

RSPCA Victoria relies on community donations to fund its work caring for homeless, neglected and abused animals.

All funds raised through Cupcake Day will be used to support this vital work.

To register and find cooking tips, drool-worthy recipes, along with helpful hints and online competitions, visitwww.rspcacupcakeday.com.au

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