Exporting Cruelty: Over 140 NZ Greyhounds Airlifted to Australia to Evade Historic Ban

A second charter flight carrying approximately 70 New Zealand racing greyhounds landed in Toowoomba early Thursday morning (August 13), marking a total of roughly 140 dogs exported to Queensland since New Zealand’s nationwide ban on greyhound racing took effect on 1 August.

The offshore transfers have sparked immediate outrage among animal protection groups on both sides of the Tasman. Advocates condemn the greyhound industry’s decisions as a cynical ploy to bypass democratic legislation and keep dogs running for gambling profit, rather than allowing them to retire into safe homes.

Among those forced onto the crates was Opawa Soap, a young greyhound who turns one on 22 August. She has never stepped foot on a race track, yet was flown straight into Australia's racing system before even reaching her first birthday.

Undercover footage shows un-raced greyhound Opawa Soap caged inside crate #70 at Christchurch Airport prior to export to Queensland. Photo: Grassroots Campaigns Aotearoa.

Evading the Public Will

Greyhound racing was officially banned in New Zealand following years of persistent public outcry, regulatory scrutiny, and unacceptable injury and death rates. The ban was designed to phase out the industry entirely and mandate the rehoming of remaining dogs.

Instead, Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) financed private charter flights to export the animals. The first flight departed Christchurch for Toowoomba on 6 August, followed by a second flight out of Auckland on 13 August.

Greyhound advocates from Grassroots Campaigns Aotearoa filmed the loading process at Christchurch Airport, capturing distress calls, yelps, and crying from inside the transport crates as the animals were loaded onto the plane.

“These flights are a cynical attempt by the racing industry to evade a New Zealand ban that was introduced due to public concern over high injury rates,” said Amy MacMahon, President of the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds (CPG).

“However, the injury rates in Australia are even worse. It seems that New Zealand trainers are just chasing gambling dollars and ignoring the welfare of their dogs.”

Out of the Frying Pan, Into Deadlier Fire

Animal welfare organisations warn that sending New Zealand greyhounds into Australian jurisdictions places them in far greater danger. Unlike New Zealand, Australian greyhound racing operates without national welfare targets, and both Queensland and New South Wales record significantly higher track injuries and fatalities.

Data analysed by the CPG shows that as of 14 August 2026, stewards’ reports across Australia have already logged 6,128 track injuries and 105 racing deaths this year alone. Industry figures reveal Queensland’s total injury rate is almost 40 per cent higher than New Zealand’s FY2025 baseline, while New South Wales exceeds New Zealand’s rate by nearly 70 per cent.

Crucially, Category F injuries—comprising on-track deaths, catastrophic trauma, and mandatory euthanasia—are dramatically higher in Australia. Queensland records a Category F rate 48 per cent higher than New Zealand's pre-ban figures.

“Greyhound racing in whatever country it's been practised in carries a significant and inherent risk of serious injury and death —and in New Zealand, we banned it due to injuries.” Dr Alison Vaughan, Senior Scientific Officer at SPCA NZ.

Compounding a National Rehoming Crisis

The influx of New Zealand dogs threatens to buckle Australia’s already struggling animal welfare infrastructure. In New South Wales, modelling from the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission (GWIC) places the state's greyhound rehoming backlog at an alarming 4,100 dogs.

Advocates also point to serious biosecurity and health risks, noting recent reports of drug-resistant hookworm outbreaks impacting greyhound properties across south-east Queensland.

Track records for previously exported dogs paint a bleak picture. In April 2025, Goldstar Racing transferred 80 greyhounds to Queensland. According to tracking by CPG, two of those dogs have already been killed on track—including Goldstar Buzz, who died in July at Purga's "The Q" racing centre—while 24 others have sustained 32 distinct injuries between them.

“The NZ dogs will likely race at The Q racing centre, the deadliest greyhound racing complex in Australia,” said Amanda Holly, Director of AnimalKIND.

“This is an appalling betrayal of the public’s wishes and of the greyhounds themselves, who should have been safe but are now exposed to the carnage that occurs on Australia’s racetracks.”

Jo Webb, Director of Corporate & Government Relations at Animals Australia, echoed the toll placed on local rescuers.

“While the industry charters flights to keep dogs racing as long as they can make a buck, it will ultimately fall to the already overwhelmed volunteers and charities in Australia to pick up the pieces and find these dogs loving homes,” Webb said.

“After everything they have endured, these dogs deserve safety. They deserve peace—not to be dispatched to another country to keep running for their lives.”

Appendix: Statistical Comparative Data

The greyhound racing industry measures track harm using an "injuries per 1,000 starts" metric. Below is the comparative breakdown of injury and mortality rates between New Zealand and major Australian destinations:

Jurisdiction	Total Injury Rate (per 1,000 starts)	Variance vs. NZ Baseline	Category F Rate (Deaths & Severe Trauma per 1k starts)	Variance vs. NZ Baseline	Source Data Period
New Zealand	22.50	Baseline	2.20	Baseline	GRNZ FY25 / NZRIB Apr 2026
Queensland	31.34	+39.3% higher	3.26	+48.2% higher	QRIC Jan 2025 – Dec 2025
New South Wales	38.00	+68.9% higher	2.90	+31.8% higher	GWIC Apr 2025 – Mar 2026

• Goldstar Racing Tracking (April 2025 Cohort): Out of 80 dogs exported from NZ to QLD, 2 confirmed dead on track (Goldstar Buzz at Purga; 1 additional unconfirmed death), 24 dogs suffered 32 separate injuries, and 16 have retired.
• NSW Rehoming Backlog: GWIC modelling estimates approximately 4,100 greyhounds currently awaiting rehoming in NSW alone.

Photography credit: All images courtesy of Grassroots Campaigns Aotearoa.

Further Reading

• Victoria Greyhound Racing Death Toll Inquiry
• The Future is Virtual, Not Physical Dog Racing
• Greyhound Welfare at Boiling Point

Frenchies vs. Collies: Australia’s Most and Least Expensive Dog Breeds to Insure

Next time you find yourself asking, "How much is that doggy in the window?", you might want to factor in the long-term cost of pet insurance before bringing your new furry family member home.

New research from comparison website Compare the Market has analysed ten of Australia’s most popular dog breeds, revealing a staggering $875 gap between the cheapest and most expensive breeds to cover.

French Bulldogs Lead the Pack for Premium Costs

According to the data, the French Bulldog ranks as the most expensive popular dog breed to insure in Australia. Annual premiums for a six-month-old puppy start at $1,194 per year (around $99 a month).

Why the hefty price tag? Pet insurers calculate premiums based on risk factors including breed lifespans, historical claims data, and known hereditary conditions.

"Fancy breeds often fetch bigger price tags, but what a lot of people probably don't account for is bigger vet bills too – especially in breeds with known hereditary conditions," explains Compare the Market spokeswoman Sarah Orr.

French Bulldogs possess a flat-faced (brachycephalic) anatomy, leaving them particularly susceptible to severe breathing complications like BOAS, spinal and joint diseases, alongside skin and eye issues. Surgeries and ongoing care for these conditions can quickly climb into the thousands of dollars.

Which Breeds Are the Cheapest to Insure?

If you are looking for lower ongoing healthcare expenses, working breeds and popular designer crosses offer far more budget-friendly insurance options.

The Border Collie takes out the top spot as Australia’s cheapest popular breed to insure, with premiums starting from just $319 a year—working out to less than $1 a day.

Popular "oodle" crossbreeds also sit on the lower end of the cost spectrum:

• Cavoodles: $343 per year ($0.94/day)
• Groodles: $355 per year ($0.97/day)

“Pet insurance can be a great financial safety net for many pet owners – but of course animals with a higher risk of potential problems may have to account for that with a higher premium,” Orr notes. “For lower-risk varieties, cover can often be found for less than a cup of coffee (or a puppuccino) each day.”

Australia's Top 10 Popular Dog Breeds: Insurance Cost Breakdown

Dog Breed Type	Daily Cost	Monthly Premium*	Annual Premium*
French Bulldog	$3.27	$99	$1,194
Labrador	$2.11	$64	$771
Golden Retriever	$1.72	$52	$628
Dachshund	$1.53	$46	$559
German Shepherd	$1.53	$46	$559
Staffordshire Bull Terrier	$1.35	$41	$494
Maltese Cross	$1.22	$37	$445
Groodle	$0.97	$29	$355
Cavoodle	$0.94	$28	$343
Border Collie	$0.88	$26	$319

*Rounded to the lowest dollar amount. Source: Compare the Market.

How Have Insurance Costs Changed Over Time?

It is interesting to note how premium pricing aligns with historical veterinary claim figures.

Back in 2019, insurance claim data from Pet Insurance Australia showed that giant purebreds like the Bullmastiff and British Bulldog generated the highest individual claims (see our 2019 breakdown on the top 10 most expensive dog breeds for insurance claims).

Fast-forward to today, and while insurance premiums broadly reflect those ongoing purebred health risks, purebred popularity trends—like the massive rise of the French Bulldog—have reshaped upfront policy pricing.

What Should Prospective Pet Owners Do?

If you're currently choosing the right dog breed for your family, researching potential health risks and running insurance comparisons early will ensure you aren't caught off guard by unexpected medical costs down the track.

Always review policy features carefully, including annual payout limits, benefit percentages, and excess options, to find cover tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

Data Disclaimer & Attribution:
Pet insurance premiums quoted via Compare the Market based on a six-month-old male desexed dog with no pre-existing conditions residing in Alderley, QLD (4051). Quotes feature a $12,000 annual limit, 80% benefit percentage, and $200 excess. Quotes are indicative only; always refer to individual Product Disclosure Statements (PDS) and Target Market Determinations (TMD).

Two Peninsulas, One Unforgettable Road Trip: Explore Mornington to Bellarine with Your Pup

Spring is the perfect excuse to pack the leash and hit the coast with your four-legged best friend. But instead of choosing between the Mornington Peninsula and Bellarine Peninsula, why not experience both in one unforgettable coastal adventure?

With beautiful beaches and charming seaside towns, this peninsula-to-peninsula itinerary is made for dogs and their hoomans. That means no rush, no leaving your pup behind, and plenty of opportunities to stop, sniff, and soak up the sunshine along the way. Plus, exploring in spring means enjoying the coast before peak summer beach restrictions kick in!

So, grab the lead, pack some treats and get ready for a spring road trip where the journey is just as exciting as the destination.

Start with a Morning Run at Tassells Cove on the Mornington Peninsula

With the days getting longer and the weather warming up, spring is a perfect time to enjoy a leisurely beach adventure.

For this itinerary, make Tassells Cove at Safety Beach your first stop. Arrive early, when the morning air is fresh, and the beach is at its most peaceful. This small dog-friendly beach has soft sand and shallow waters where your pup can run, play, and splash. At the northern end of the beach, you can explore rock pools and small caves at low tide. Take care on the slippery rocks and avoid this section during high tide or rough conditions.

A Little Woof of Warning: Some neighbouring areas on Safety Beach may have different on-leash rules, so always check local council signs when exploring beyond Tassells Cove.

Want to swap Tassells Cove for another beach? There are plenty of other dog-friendly beaches around the Mornington Peninsula if you’d prefer to start your day somewhere else. Hawker Beach in Mount Martha is another off-leash beach zone where your dog can freely run along the sand and splash in the shallows. If you're heading further south, Flinders Beach is another local favourite among pup parents, with its designated off-leash area perfect for morning runs and zoomies.

Head Towards Sorrento for a Coastal Town Wander

Once your pup has had their morning dose of beach zoomies, it’s time to make your way towards Sorrento.

Why Sorrento? Because it’s the perfect place to slow down, soak up the seaside atmosphere, and enjoy a little more of the Mornington Peninsula before your adventure continues across the bay.

Known for its charming heritage buildings, boutique shops, and beautiful coastal setting, Sorrento offers plenty of opportunities for a relaxed stroll with your dog. Ocean Beach Road is lined with boutiques and larger chain stores, making it a great spot for a little retail therapy. While you browse the shops, your pup can enjoy the sights and smells of this lively seaside village from your side.

If you and your pup still have more energy to burn, the Millionaire’s Walk is one of the must-visit short trails on the Mornington Peninsula, although dogs are required to be on a leash at all times. This 1-kilometre coastal walk offers spectacular views across Port Phillip Bay and a glimpse of some of the area’s most luxurious coastal homes.

And when you’re ready for a well-earned break, Sorrento has plenty of dog-friendly cafés that beckon you to pause and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Refuelling at a dog-friendly café in Sorrento.

Pop into Flathead Sorrento for a great coffee or relax on the outdoor deck at The Smuggler, where dogs are always treated to fresh water bowls. You won’t want to linger too long, though, because there’s another adventure waiting just down the road.

Hop Aboard a Ferry Ride with Your Furry Friend

Here’s where your peninsula-to-peninsula adventure takes an exciting turn. Searoad Ferries connects Sorrento and Queenscliff with a scenic crossing of Port Phillip Bay, turning what could be a long drive around the bay into a 40-minute experience to enjoy together.

And best of all, your dog doesn’t have to miss out on the fun.

Ferries aren't just for small pups—spacious outdoor decks mean dogs of every shape and size can travel in comfort.

Dogs of all sizes are welcome on the external decks onboard so long as they are on a leash. So whether you're travelling with a tiny pup who loves being carried or a big dog who needs plenty of room to stretch their legs, your four-legged companion can join you for the adventure.

Travelling by car? Searoad Ferries makes the transition from road trip to sea voyage easy with drive-on, drive-off boarding, so there's no need to turn your vehicle around once you're onboard. Foot passengers can easily board and enjoy the same scenic ferry experience across the bay.

Once you’re onboard, head outside with your pup and take in the sweeping views across Port Phillip Bay. The fresh sea breeze, open decks, and water bowls provided onboard make it a delight for dogs. If you need a quick caffeine hit or a snack, the onboard café serves drinks and a range of light bites to help you refuel.

Ocean breezes and morning coffee: enjoying a smooth crossing along the coast with your four-legged companion.

Before you know it, you'll be pulling into Queenscliff, with a happy pup by your side and a whole new peninsula waiting to be explored.

Explore the Historic Seaside Village of Queenscliff

As you step off the ferry at the Queenscliff Terminal, you’ll be greeted by the laid-back charm of the Bellarine Peninsula. Your first stop? The historic seaside village of Queenscliff.

With your pup on-leash, make your way into the heart of town and stroll along Hesse Street. Here, Victorian-era buildings, heritage hotels, quaint cottages, and charming shopfronts create a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely walk. The village is also home to boutique shops, galleries, cafés, and specialty stores, so there’s plenty to see as you explore the streets together.

For a change of scenery, head towards Queenscliff Harbour. This waterfront precinct has a distinctly nautical feel, with boats and yachts bobbing in the marina, and waterfront cafés where you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat. The spacious outdoor deck at 360 Q right on the harbour edge is a fantastic dog-friendly venue, or you can grab a quick bite from 3225 Cafe on Hesse Street.

Continue to Point Lonsdale for an Afternoon Adventure

After exploring historic Queenscliff, take the short drive along the coast to Point Lonsdale for another taste of the Bellarine Peninsula's seaside charm.

Take a stroll through the village before heading towards the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, one of the Bellarine’s most iconic landmarks. Dogs are not allowed inside the tower, but the surrounding outdoor reserve area (Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve) is worth checking out. Here, your pup can enjoy some off-leash freedom as long as they remain under effective control.

A Woof of Warning: Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve is operating as an off-leash area under a one-year council trial. Dogs must remain under effective control, and visitors should check the current council signage before visiting.

For a proper dose of sandy fun, you can also make your way to Narrows Beach, located between Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale. Known by locals as "Dog Beach," Narrows Beach is the only year-round off-leash section of beach in the Borough of Queenscliff. The off-leash area starts at the end of the boardwalk and extends east towards Fraser Street, giving dogs plenty of space for zoomies.

Wind Up the Journey at Ocean Grove

It’s time to follow the coast towards Ocean Grove for the final leg of your adventure. One of the region’s most popular coastal towns, Ocean Grove is a must-visit destination on the Bellarine Peninsula. And with its sweeping coastline and relaxed atmosphere, it serves as the perfect place to bring your day to a close.

If your four-legged companion still has some energy left after a full day of exploring, head towards the Thirteenth Beach area for one last burst of zoomies. There are year-round off-leash sections at Thirteenth Beach between beach markers 8W and 13W. Just keep an eye out for local signage and wildlife protection areas.

For a more relaxed finale, take a stroll through Ocean Grove’s town centre. Head along The Terrace to browse the local shops and find somewhere to settle in for a well-earned afternoon coffee or snack. With plenty of cafés and eateries around the town centre, it's easy to find a spot to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. If you're ready for a refreshing drink or pub meal to cap off the trip, the sunny beer garden at the Ocean Grove Hotel warmly welcomes dogs on leads.

Ready to Explore Two Peninsulas with Your Dog?

From an early-morning splash on the Mornington Peninsula to an afternoon run along the Bellarine coast, this spring itinerary proves that some of Victoria's best adventures are even better with four paws beside you. So pack the lead, grab the treats, and set your sights on a peninsula-to-peninsula escape.

• Route Overview: Safety Beach → Sorrento → Searoad Ferries Crossing → Queenscliff → Point Lonsdale → Ocean Grove
• Ferries: Departs hourly between Sorrento and Queenscliff daily
• Pet Policy: Dogs travel free of charge! Must remain on a leash on external passenger decks (guide dogs permitted inside).
• What to Bring: Fresh water, travel bowl, lead, waste bags, towel, and dog seatbelt harness

Ready to cross the bay with your dog?

Dogs ride free—you only need to book for human passengers and vehicles.

Book your passage on Searoad Ferries

Soaking in the sea views from the top deck in safe, cosy arms.

Dogs of 1 Club Returns to 1 Hotel Melbourne for International Dog Day

Looking for the ultimate way to celebrate International Dog Day with your four-legged best friend? Back by popular demand, 1 Hotel Melbourne is hosting its signature Dogs of 1 Club party on Saturday, 29th August at the picturesque Crane Terrace.

It promises to be a feel-good morning where pups and their people are treated like the true VIPs they are.

Timed perfectly for a morning stroll along the Yarra, Dogs of 1 Club blends good vibes, great coffee, and a social, pet-friendly atmosphere.

What’s Included for Pups & Humans

From 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, four-legged guests will be treated to:

• Puppuccinos & Gourmet Treats: Tasty, dog-friendly treats just for the pooches.
• Complimentary Drinks: Free Cocohit coconut water for human attendees.
• Café Options: Speciality coffee and fresh pastries available for purchase from Neighbours Café.

Onsite Activities & Best-Dressed Contest

As Crane Terrace bustles with activity, expect plenty of opportunities to connect with the local canine community alongside fun highlights:

• Live Custom Portraits: Live sketching of your pooches by an onsite illustrator.
• Clay Paw Prints: Personalised clay paw prints to take home as a keepsake.
• Best-Dressed Competition: Fashion aficionados, take note—dress your dog to impress, because a prize for the best-dressed pup is up for grabs!
• Photo Ops: Adorable puppy photo moments throughout the space.

Supporting Lort Smith Animal Hospital

This will be a truly heartwarming affair, with every $10 Dogs of 1 Club ticket being donated in full to Lort Smith Animal Hospital, one of Australia's most cherished animal welfare organisations.

Event Details Summary

• Event: Dogs of 1 Club | International Dog Day
• Date: Saturday, 29th August
• Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Location: Crane Terrace, 1 Hotel Melbourne
• Entry: $10 per ticket (100% donated to Lort Smith Animal Hospital). Tickets can be purchased HERE.

Photo Credit: Allegra Mazzella (supplied)

A Paws-itively Perfect Day at Retford Park: International Dog Day 2026

On Sunday, August 23rd, 2026, Retford Park in Bowral, NSW, will host its beloved annual International Dog Day celebration, an event dedicated entirely to honouring our canine companions.

Calling all dogs, hounds, pups, mutts, doggos, and pooches! The festivities will take place from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM within the historic estate’s breath-taking European-inspired gardens.

Held in celebration of James Fairfax, the renowned art collector and philanthropist known for his deep affection for his dogs, this special event invites you and your furry friends to join in on a joyful day out in the Southern Highlands.

Tail-Wagging Event Highlights

The event program is packed with a wide range of interactive activities designed for both dogs and their human companions:

✔  Free Garden Tours: Explore the lush, historic grounds of Retford Park on guided garden tours tailored specifically for pups and their humans.

✔  Puppy Paw Painting: Available all day long—let your creative pooch craft a one-of-a-kind paw-some keepsake to take home!

✔  Off-Leash Area & Stick Library: Pups can burn off extra energy in a dedicated off-leash play zone equipped with its very own stick and ball library.

✔  Agility Course & Competitions: Test your dog’s skills on the fun agility course set up on the main lawns, participate in friendly competitions, and enjoy impressive dog sport demonstrations.

✔  Market Stalls: Browse a selection of pet-themed vendor stalls offering artisanal treats, bespoke accessories, and specialised pet services.

Guidelines for Dog Owners

To ensure a safe, relaxed, and happy atmosphere for everyone attending, dog owners are asked to observe the following conditions of entry:

• Dog owners are responsible for their dog’s behaviour at all times.
• Dogs must remain on a lead at all times, except when inside the designated off-leash area. Retractable leads are strictly not permitted.
• Dogs must be fully vaccinated, well-socialised, and non-aggressive.
• Owners are required to clean up after their pets using the waste bins provided.
• Please maintain a safe and respectful distance between your dog and others.

Ticketing & Booking Details

General admission to all International Dog Day activities is included with a regular General Entry – Garden ticket for Sunday, August 23rd, 2026.

Admission prices are as follows:

• National Trust Members: FREE
• Adults: $17.00
• Concession: $15.00
• Children (under 16): FREE
• Family Ticket: $49.00

Tickets can be purchased at the door on the day; however, pre-booking online in advance is highly recommended as spaces are limited and booking fees apply.

For more updates and to secure your entry, visit www.nationaltrust.org.au.

Photo credit: All images supplied by National Trust (NSW).

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Dogs Day Out 2026 at Norman Lindsay Gallery – August 29

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).