A rare father-and-son pair of German Shepherds has joined the largest canine crime-fighting team in Queensland history after graduating alongside their human handlers at the state police facility in Oxley.
A Family of Crime Fighters
The recent graduation ceremony celebrated the completion of an intensive training program for five new police dogs. Among the graduates were two legacy dogs bred from serving police animals, which included the unique pairing of a father and his son, Police Dogs Xero and Jero. The pair completed their training side by side before receiving their ceremonial collars.
The 12-week course was designed to test both the animals and their handlers in essential police duties. The teams focused heavily on tracking offenders, locating missing people, and mastering apprehension techniques. Following the course, the father-and-son duo split up to begin their careers in regional areas. Senior Constable Michael Festing took Police Dog Xero to the Rockhampton Dog Squad, while Senior Constable Sam Stutsel headed to the Moreton Dog Squad with Police Dog Jero.
Other members of the graduating class also received their regional assignments. Senior Constable Ryley Kajewski and Police Dog Hooper joined the Moreton team, and Senior Constable Riki Stewart took Police Dog Bruno to Rockhampton. Constable Morgan Prendergast and Police Dog Izzy were assigned to the Townsville Dog Squad.
Historic Numbers for the State
These five new teams have pushed the Queensland Police Service Dog Squad to its largest size since the unit was formed in 1972. The statewide organisation now operates with 115 police dogs and 95 handlers spread across 15 different locations.
The growth means more resources for regional communities. While most of the new graduates filled existing roles, the government created a brand-new handler position in Rockhampton to put an extra dog on the ground. Brisbane remains the largest hub with 30 handlers and 45 dogs, but regional areas from Cape York down to the border are also seeing strengthened canine support.
Focus on Community Safety
State leaders and police officials noted that the record squad size is a major boost for community safety. Minister for Police Dan Purdie indicated that the expanded canine unit reflects a commitment to providing frontline officers with the resources they need to protect local neighbourhoods.
Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman explained that police dogs provide a level of support that goes far beyond human abilities, especially when officers are called into high-risk situations. He added that the dogs and handlers demonstrated massive dedication and resilience during their training.
For the officers on the ground, the graduation marked the start of a deep working relationship. Constable Prendergast expressed complete confidence in his new partner, noting the strong bond they built during training. He highlighted how much he was looking forward to taking his highly determined dog back to his hometown of Townsville to serve his local community.
