From a young age, Dave dreamed of being a policeman, inspired by early experiences and playing with boxes that he labelled “police.”
He joined the Queensland Police in 1989, driven by a desire to make a difference, and soon became a respected officer.
A chance conversation led Dave to the competitive dog squad, where he found his calling and passion for working with police dogs.
Over 26 years, Dave formed strong bonds with dogs like Buddy, Zed, Vader, Axel, and Jet, each with unique traits and abilities.
His career includes stories of tracking offenders, rescuing people in dangerous situations, highlighting the vital role of his canine partners.
Despite tough times and PTSD, his dedication to his dogs and the community helped Dave overcome personal and professional challenges.
Axel, one of Dave’s beloved dogs, became a local icon, celebrated with a statue in Cairns, honouring Dave’s contributions and his dogs’ impact.
*****
We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us, produced by Kintsugi Heroes.
Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need.
If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here – https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact
We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!
Warmly,
The Kintsugi Heroes team
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Kintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit Australian podcast network sharing real stories of resilience, disability, and transformation.
Named after the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold — the philosophy that what’s been broken can become more beautiful for the mending — every episode honours the cracks, the rebuild, and the human underneath.
We believe every story matters. Every scar has something to say. And every person quietly finding their way through deserves to be heard.
🏷️ Topics we cover: resilience, disability, trauma recovery, mental health, transformation, lived experience, chronic illness, neurodiversity, grief, identity, community, caregiving, refugee stories, animal therapy, ageing, older Australians, wellbeing, invisible illness, inclusion, personal growth, hope, rebuilding, human connection, Australian stories
📺 Series on this channel:
– Kintsugi Heroes — real stories of resilience | hosted by John Milham
– Animals & Us | hosted by Natalie Stockdale
– Grit Diaries: from Grit to Grace | hosted by Simone Allan & Maryan Bova
– From There to Here | hosted by Emma Bellamy-Dodd
– Golden Threads — stories of disability & resilience | hosted by Dan Dougherty
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