Ginny Smith uses handmade dog toys, pillows and blankets to help rescue mature-age animals across the city – the often forgotten “golden oldies”. 

It is a cause close to her heart, having rescued her own 16-year-old Maltese, Hobo, who was found on a roadside.

Ms Smith’s Lake Albert stall was one of an average 60 at Saturday’s Christmas market.

“We come to the markets regardless of the dollars,” she said.

“We all know each other and support each other … everyone here is selling locally made goods and items.”

The Golden Oldies Animal Rescue volunteer said the market was about catching up with neighbours, showcasing locally-made goods and raising money for great causes. 

Markets by the Lake coordinator Stuart Wallace said monthly market was always a great community event, with a gold-coin-donation entry supporting charities across the year. 

“There have been some great improvement to the area with the playground and the toilets, which helps,” Mr Wallace said. 

“Our numbers stay the same across the year but it is slowly gaining popularity.”

Mr Wallace invited Wagga residents to come down and check out the next market on Australia Day.