Too friendly for Border Force, this chocolate Lab puppy is now helping ease travel stress for Victorian passengers.
For many travellers, navigating an airport can be one of the most stressful parts of a journey. From security checks to rushing for boarding gates, pre-flight anxiety is a real challenge.
Avalon Airport Melbourne has decided to take a delightfully warm approach to easing travel stress—by introducing a four-legged recruit to their team!
Meet Maverick, an adorable chocolate Labrador puppy who has officially stepped into the role of Avalon Airport's new Wellbeing Ambassador.
From ABF Trainee to Terminal Superstar
Maverick’s journey to the airport terminal is a story in itself. He originally joined the Australian Border Force (ABF) Detector Dog Programme to train as a working dog. However, trainers quickly noticed that Maverick had a far stronger calling: his overwhelmingly cheerful demeanour, friendly nature, and love for people meant he was far better suited for public engagement than sniffing out contraband!
Recognising his unique talent for bringing joy to people, Avalon Airport welcomed him to their community-facing team instead.
What Maverick’s Day Job Looks Like
While Maverick won't be marshalling aircraft on the tarmac anytime soon, he will become a beloved, familiar face around Avalon’s terminals. His main mission is simple: offer a friendly greeting, meet families, soothe nervous fliers, and share a lighter side of air travel.
Beyond his terminal walk-throughs, Maverick will also serve as a digital ambassador. He will feature in regular behind-the-scenes social content—introducing travellers to different airport operations, hanging out with pilots and ground staff, and sharing helpful travel tips with plenty of pup personality.
Supporting Inclusive Travel
Maverick’s role isn't just about cute photo opportunities—it’s part of a broader push to make travel more accessible and stress-free. His presence complements Avalon Airport’s existing Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, adding another comforting, approachable touchpoint for passengers who need extra support or a soothing distraction.
Dave Moreland, Chief Operating Officer at Avalon Airport Melbourne, highlighted the impact even a small interaction can have:
"Travel is exciting, but for many people it can also be overwhelming: whether you're flying for the first time, travelling with young children or simply feeling anxious before a flight."
“Even a small positive interaction can make a real difference. Our newest team member is all about bringing smiles to people's faces.”
"We want Avalon to be known as an airport that's friendly, approachable and easy to travel through."
Named by the Community
To kick off his official welcome, Avalon Airport invited the public to help choose the puppy’s name. After a resounding community vote, the energetic chocolate pup was officially named Maverick—a fitting title for an ambassador ready to fly high in his new career!
Photo credit: Courtesy of Avalon Airport (supplied).
