Mr Wettenhall said Guide Dogs Queensland, which turns 50 this year, was a local icon worthy of Queenslanders' support.

"Guide Dogs Queensland does a tremendous job making life easier for Queenslanders with a disability," Mr Wettenhall said.

"The guide dogs it trains make an enormous difference to the quality of life of people with a disability.

"These dogs help thousands of vision-impaired Queenslanders to remain active in their communities and live independently."

Mr Wettenhall said Guide Dogs Queensland was celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

"The Bligh Government recognises the great job Guide Dogs Queensland has done over five decades, and look forward to working with them for the next five decades."

Mr Wettenhall said the Bligh Government was committed to stamping out discrimination against people who rely on guide dogs.

"Tough new penalties came into force last year for anyone refusing service to people with a disability because they have a guide dog," Mr Wettenhall said.

"These include fines of up to $10,000 for individuals and up to $50,000 for businesses that don't do the right thing.

"We want to send out a very clear message that discrimination against people with guide dogs is not on.

"We're not going to tolerate this sort of discrimination, and anyone who refuses service to people with a guide dog will face the full force of the law."

ENDS