The Mackay Whitsunday District’s Dog Squad has expanded with the addition of two new police dogs, bolstering its already impressive lineup of working canines.
Labrador duo Neo and Baron have joined the ranks of experienced German Shepherds Jury and Ruckus in the district this year. At 10 years old, Neo is a seasoned veteran, nearing the end of his career with the Queensland Police Service. He has taken on a mentorship role, guiding the young and energetic Baron, a two-year-old Labrador who is quickly proving himself as a fast learner. Under the experienced watch of Neo and Sergeant Felipe Peraza, Baron is adapting well to his duties as a police drug dog.
Both dogs display a remarkable ability to shift into “work mode” swiftly, but in their downtime, they enjoy their favourite pastimes, including food, rest, and play.
Sergeant Peraza, who has nearly two decades of service in the Queensland Police Force, is the Officer in Charge of the Mackay Dog Squad. Having served in various regions, including Hendra, Fortitude Valley, and Cairns, he transferred to Mackay in April 2024. Since his arrival, he has led the training of the district’s newest drug dog, Baron, while also working closely with Jury, a 7-year-old German Shepherd who has been with the squad for several years.
Senior Constable Jarrod Knox, who has been with the Queensland Police since 2013, joined the Mackay Dog Squad in 2022. He now works alongside Ruckus, a four-and-a-half-year-old German Shepherd who is known for his love of sunbathing and playing in the waves at the beach.
The introduction of these new canine officers has been welcomed by both residents and fellow police officers across the Mackay Whitsunday District. The squad, now strengthened by these dedicated animals and their handlers, continues to serve and protect the community with a formidable canine team.
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