To celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8 we are highlighting the work of our outstanding detector dog handlers.
Biosecurity Tasmania has a team of 11 detector dog handlers, 9 of whom are women.
Detector Dog Program Coordinator Gill Taylor said she is proud to lead the Program with such an outstanding team.
“I think our team has some of the most dedicated and hard-working women within NRE Tas," Gill said. "Each day I get to see the effort they put in to developing their handling skills and capability, and the commitment they bring to performing their roles."
Program Coordinator Gill and Toby
To be a detector dog handler requires a high degree of skill and commitment to achieve effective outcomes. Handlers work with the dogs in the airports, freight sheds, and mail centres, to detect biosecurity risk material that may not be found without the help of their powerful noses.
Both handlers and dogs play a crucial role in protecting Tasmania’s ecosystems and agriculture from biosecurity threats.
Detector Dog Handler Lily and Dutch
Detector Dog Handler Tamsyn and Rose
Unsurprisingly, a big highlight of the role is working with the detector dogs.
For detector dog handler Danni Williams, it really doesn't get any better than that.
"The first thing I’m greeted with when I get to work is a wagging tail and big puppy eyes,” she said.
Fellow handler Morgan Tannock said that seeing the dog's abilities develop is incredibly rewarding.
“It’s exciting to see their skills develop and to know you’ve played a part in their success,” she said.
Detector Dog Handler Danni and Ruby
Throughout their time working together, the team have fostered a collaborative and supportive work environment, where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute to the overall success of the team. A key part of this supportive environment is making sure every team member feels empowered.
For the team empowerment means having the confidence, support, and freedom to grow, take on challenges, and use their skills to make a positive impact.
Empowerment is also about lifting others up, sharing knowledge, and creating an environment where everyone feels capable, valued, and encouraged to do their best.
Detector dog handler Tamsyn McLennan said that when they empower each other, they foster growth, creativity, and a sense of purpose that drives them toward achieving their collective goals.
The detector dog handlers of Biosecurity Tasmania are paws-itively dedicated to protecting Tasmania's biosecurity while fostering a supportive and empowering work environment. Their teamwork, skill, and commitment not only keep our state safe but also uplift and inspire one another. This International Women's Day we celebrate these talented women who lead the pack with confidence, collaboration, and dedication.
Detector Dog Handler Morgan and Rose