THEY are the new pack of furry frontline workers fresh on the street – six new corrective services dogs ready to protect the community.
Alongside more than 700 new officers trained in the last year for Queensland Corrective Services careers, Harvey, Shadow, Shaq, Jet, Forest and Derek are “em-barking” on new careers, with their paws firmly at the ready.
Last week, 70 new Custodial Correctional Officers also graduated and are set to start postings at Arthur Gorrie, Brisbane, Brisbane Women’s, Maryborough, Southern, Wolston, Woodford and Borallon Training, and Correctional Centres and the Escort and Security Branch.
“This contingent of furry new recruits has been specially selected for intensive Queensland Corrective Services training designed to maximise the unique, more than 14,000-year bond between dogs and their human handlers,” said State Member for Mount Ommaney Jess Pugh.
“The 70 new Custodial Corrections Officers, Corrective Services dogs and instructors graduating join more than 700 new QCS officers trained in the last year for fulfilling frontline safety careers,” added Corrective Services Minister Nikki Boyd.
“Our officers are our greatest asset, and we thank them all for their commitment to protecting the safety of Queensland communities,” said QCS Commissioner Paul Stewart APM.
Acting Dog Squad State Manager, QCS, David Hurikino said it was a privilege to welcome the new handlers and dogs knowing they would be a vital asset to their centres.
“The bond between a corrective services dog and their handler is a deep one, built over countless hours of training, working, and living together,” he said.
“The officers will be providing the highest security and response capability, responding to emergency situations and keeping our prisons safe every day.”
