Australia's Top 10 Pet-Friendly Scenic Drives

For many Aussie families, a holiday just isn't a holiday unless the four-legged members of the pack are riding shotgun, windows down, noses catching the breeze.

But as any dog owner knows, mapping out a road trip with a pet requires serious legwork. Finding spots where your dog can legally run off-lead, grab a bite to eat, or stay the night without being turned away can turn a relaxing getaway into a logistical headache.

To take the guesswork out of your next adventure, the team at car insurance brand ROLLiN’ conducted a comprehensive, data-driven study of 22 of Australia’s most iconic driving routes.

Crunching the Numbers: How the Routes Were Scored

This wasn’t just a quick glance at a map. To find the ultimate destinations, ROLLiN' built a rigorous scoring system across four core categories and eight key metrics, heavily weighting the things that matter most to pet owners:

• Pet Amenities (40%): Evaluated the density per 100km of pet-friendly accommodation (15%), dog-friendly eateries like cafes, pubs, and wineries (10%), verified off-leash dog parks and restriction-free beaches (10%), and safe vehicle rest stops (5%).

• Safety & Risk (25%): Assessed the availability of veterinary clinics per 100km (15%) balanced against a negative scoring weight for Snake Risk (10%), using data from the Atlas of Living Australia to calculate the density of venomous snake observations along each route corridor.

• Experience & Shareability (20%): Standardised the density of pet-friendly hikes, coastal lookouts, waterfalls, and photogenic heritage landmarks per 100km.

• Comfort & Environment (15%): Applied gridded climate models to find routes with the ideal seasonal pet travel temperature range of 15–22 degrees Celsius during autumn and winter.

From coast to coast, here is how the top-scoring routes performed, alongside the exact local pit stops you should add to your itinerary.

1. The Crown Jewel: WA's Cape to Cape (Score: 79.2/100)

Running from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin through the spectacular Margaret River region, the Cape to Cape route officially claims the title of Australia’s most pet-friendly road trip.

If your dog is a beach-dwelling water babe, this is their absolute paradise. The route boasts the highest density of dog-friendly parks and beaches in the study—a whopping 159.42 spots per 100km. It’s also incredibly easy to find a place to stay, offering more than 30 pet-friendly accommodation options per 100km, which is double the runner-up.

• Where to Stay: Check into the gorgeous Margaret House or book a relaxed, pet-welcoming stay at Ohana B.

• Where to Play: Let your pup stretch their legs, sniff the seaweed, and splash in the shallows at Flinders Bay in Augusta.

• The Safety Bonus: While vet clinics are more modest here (3.6 per 100km), it scored a perfect 100/100 for climate comfort and has an incredibly low snake observation risk—just 5.40 sightings per 100km, with the Tiger Snake being the most commonly spotted.

2. Most Photogenic: NSW's Grand Pacific Drive (Score: 78.8/100)

Winding from the Royal National Park down the NSW South Coast, the Grand Pacific Drive missed out on the top spot by a whisker, but dominated the "Experience & Shareability" category with an unbelievable 92.6/100.

This short, sharp drive features an extraordinary 328 scenic points of interest and dog-friendly trails per 100km. It is also the ultimate foodies' route for pups, serving up 57 dog-friendly eateries per 100km so your best mate never has to miss out on lunch.

• Where to Eat: Grab a coffee and a puppy pastry at KG Cafe in Kiama, or pull up an outdoor seat at the ultra-welcoming Uncle Earl's in Wollongong.

• Where to Play: Burn off some highway energy at Warilla Dog Park, a fantastic spot for a safe, off-leash run and socialise.

• The Safety Factor: Pups on this route need to stay on script; the data showed a very high density of 95.05 snake observations per 100km, predominantly the Red-bellied Black Snake. Keep to the designated trails!

3. The Ultimate All-Rounder: Legendary Pacific Coast, NSW-QLD (Score: 72.9/100)

Stretching from Sydney to Brisbane, this legendary route rounds out the top three. What makes this drive a winner is its incredible consistency across all categories—making it arguably the most reliable choice for a long-distance holiday.

• Where to Eat: Stop into the historic Morpeth Milk Bar for a nostalgic treat on the patio, or grab a fresh, healthy bite at Fel's Kitchen in the heart of dog-loving Byron Bay.

• Where to Play: Break up the long highway drive with a highly rated leg-stretch at Reedy Creek Dog Park on the Gold Coast.

• The Safety Bonus: This route is officially the safest when it comes to medical peace of mind, boasting the highest density of veterinary clinics in the country at 9.56 clinics per 100km. You are never far from top-tier care if your pup gets into mischief.

4. The Coastal Icon: Great Ocean Road, VIC (Score: 68.8/100)

Winding past rugged cliffs and world-famous surf breaks, Victoria's premier drive ranks an impressive fourth. It boasts 146 scenic photo-ops and 66 pet-friendly parks and beaches per 100km, meaning your dog will get to sniff out plenty of new seaside territory.

• Where to Play: Take in the breathtaking sights at Bird Rock Lookout, then head down to the soft sands of Guvvos Beach in Anglesea or Sandy Gully Beach in Aireys Inlet for an energetic run.

• Where to Stay: Unwind after a long day behind the wheel at Seamist Cottage in Apollo Bay, a beautiful, fully self-contained, dog-friendly retreat.

• The Safety Factor: The lush coastal scrub along this highway is prime territory for Tiger Snakes, logging 94.20 observations per 100km in the study. Vigilance is key when navigating boardwalks and trail edges.

5. The Classic Interstate Dash: Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive (Score: 67.2/100)

Avoiding the boring inland highway pays off. Taking the winding coastal route between Australia’s two biggest cities offers an abundance of ocean air, heritage towns, and excellent hospitality for travellers with hounds.

• Where to Play: Let your dog chase the waves and make some local friends at the beautiful, dog-friendly Woonona Beach just north of Wollongong.

• Where to Eat: Fuel up with lunch at Lou's Place in Shellharbour, or grab a famous woodfired pie or pastry at the iconic Heritage Bakery in Milton.

The Leaderboard: Australia’s Top 10 Pet-Friendly Drives

1. Cape to Cape, WA – Overall Score: 79.2/100
2. Grand Pacific Drive, NSW – Overall Score: 78.8/100
3. Legendary Pacific Coast, NSW-QLD – Overall Score: 72.9/100
4. Great Ocean Road, VIC – Overall Score: 68.8/100
5. Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive, NSW-VIC – Overall Score: 67.2/100
6. Epicurean Way, SA – Overall Score: 65.4/100
7. Great Barrier Reef Drive, QLD – Overall Score: 65.2/100
8. Great Beach Drive, QLD – Overall Score: 62.3/100
9. South West Edge, WA – Overall Score: 61.6/100
10. The Great Alpine Road, VIC – Overall Score: 60.2/100

Routes to Reconsider

While Australia has some incredible regions for pet travel, the data highlighted a few iconic tracks where it might be best to leave your furry friend at home with a sitter.

The three lowest-scoring routes in the study were Cairns to Cape York, QLD (55.1), the rugged Gibb River Road, WA (54.7), and Tasmania’s Western Wilds (53.3). Because these drives pass through heavily protected national parks where domestic pets are strictly prohibited, remote wilderness, and areas with limited vet access, they aren't ideal for a holiday with a hound.

Knowing the Slither Factor: Snake Safety by the Numbers

Because Australia is home to some of the world's most venomous reptiles, understanding local wildlife risks is a massive part of being a responsible pet traveller. ROLLiN's data extracted venomous snake observations over a five-year period to map exactly what species dominate each drive.

If you are travelling the East Coast routes, look out for the Red-bellied Black Snake (pictured above). It accounted for the vast majority of sightings on the Grand Pacific Drive, the Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive, and the Legendary Pacific Coast (which clocked the highest overall volume with 895 sightings over its long corridor).

Down south and across the plains, the landscape shifts. Victoria's Great Ocean Road and Western Australia's South West Edge are firmly Tiger Snake and Common Brown Snake territories, while South Australia's Epicurean Way corridor is heavily dominated by the Common Brown Snake. Meanwhile, northern drives like the Great Barrier Reef Drive feature a completely different environment, dominated by the Night Tiger (Brown Tree Snake).

Top Tips for a Pawsome Journey

Even if you choose one of the top-ranking, high-vet-density routes, preparing your dog for a multi-day trip is essential for keeping everyone's stress levels down.

Brendan Griffiths, Executive Manager at ROLLiN', points out that a great road trip relies on a mix of the right gear and good planning.

“There are practical ways you can prepare your dog for comfort on a long-distance drive. Simple measures like securing your pet safely in the car and keeping emergency supplies handy can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth, stress-free journey.”

“It’s also important to think beyond the car and plan the journey itself. Mapping your route ahead of time, choosing pet-friendly rest stops, and building in regular breaks can help make the road trip safer and more comfortable overall.”

Making Memories Safely

Ultimately, hitting the tarmac with your dog is all about creating unbreakable bonds and sharing the adventure.

"The team at ROLLiN’ know that travelling with your pet is often a non-negotiable, as many Aussies want to explore the country and create lasting memories with their furry companions," says Griffiths. "Ranking Australia’s most pet‑friendly road trips is about helping travellers enjoy unforgettable adventures with their pets, while ensuring everyone arrives safely at every stop.”

Where are you heading next with your pup? Head over to the full research on ROLLiN's page to dive deeper into the stats for your favourite route.

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One Million Happy Tails: Celebrating a Historic Milestone in Australian Pet Rescue

Behind every pet adoption is a quiet, transformative story. It begins with an animal in need of a fresh start, a human willing to open their heart, and a sudden, undeniable moment of connection where everything changes.

Historically across Australia, those moments have occurred in suburban backyards, quiet foster living rooms, and shelter meeting spaces. But when you aggregate those individual moments of joy over more than two decades, you discover something truly monumental.

This month, as Australia celebrates National Pet Adoption Month, the nation’s rescue community has hit an extraordinary milestone: PetRescue has officially facilitated one million pet adoptions.

From invisible to irresistible, the culture surrounding rescue animals in Australia has fundamentally shifted. What was once seen by some as an alternative option has become a mainstream, celebrated choice. To mark this million-moment milestone, the spotlight shines brightly on the community that made it happen—and on a very special pup who represents the faces of a million futures.

From Logo to Legacy: The Millionth Milestone

If there is a single dog who embodies the joy of this milestone, it is a sweet, expressive pup named Myka. In a delightful twist of cosmic coincidence, Myka happens to look almost exactly like the iconic green-and-white PetRescue logo. More importantly, she is officially the one-millionth pet to be adopted through the platform.

Myka’s journey to her forever home began under the dedicated care of DM Rescue, a member organisation of PetRescue. Her eventual adopters, Sophie and her husband Furkan, are lifelong animal lovers whose global lives across China, Turkey, and Thailand had shaped a deeply compassionate view of animal welfare.

When the couple settled into a stable routine in Australia, they knew it was time to welcome a dog into their lives. Initially, like many prospective pet owners, they looked into buying a puppy from a breeder. However, they quickly found themselves shocked by the steep financial costs and uncomfortable with the transactional nature of the process.

"We didn't feel like we needed a specific breed," Sophie reflects. "We just wanted a dog to give love to and that would suit our lifestyle."

Turning to PetRescue, they originally looked at a larger, 35kg dog, but Sophie worried about managing a dog of that size on her own when Furkan was away for training and athletic competitions. That was when they saw the listing for Myka (then named Niobe)—a tiny, incredibly shy pup.

Their first meet-and-greet sealed their fate. "Literally, we met her, everything felt really good, but she was a bit shy," Sophie remembers. 

"Then she just ran right under Furkan's legs, and we said, 'OK, we're taking her.' We popped her in the car and just took her home."

From Shy Foster to a "One in a Million" Personality

What happened next is a textbook example of the rescue magic that thousands of Australian families experience every year. Within the safety of a loving permanent home, Myka’s initial shyness evaporated, revealing a brilliant, highly distinct personality.

Today, Sophie describes her as a "little bundle of joy" who possesses a sensitivity and sweetness that keeps her glued to her humans' sides. But she is also a powerhouse of fun.

"She snores louder than my husband!" Sophie laughs. "Her playfulness is so cute. We play tag and hide-and-seek in the yard, and I already can't keep up with her."

Myka has also proven to be an exceptionally fast learner, exhibiting what her family describes as "almost human-level intelligence" during her daily training sessions. For Sophie and Furkan, the journey completely rewired how they view choosing a companion animal. 

They realised that when it comes to finding a family member, compatibility and personality matter far more than rigid criteria like size, breed, or gender.

Watching her transform from a timid foster pup into a confident, snoring, hide-and-seeking member of the family is a privilege that Sophie wishes every pet owner could experience. 

It highlights the profound truth that shelter animals are not "damaged goods"—they are simply unwritten chapters waiting for the right author.

The Power of the 1% Shift

While celebrating one million adoptions is a historic triumph for Australian animal welfare, the milestone arrived alongside a sober reality check from rescue organisations. Nationally, while numbers have historically broken records, the rate of pet adoptions has begun to experience a post-pandemic slowdown. At the same time, surrenders and ambient pressure on councils, shelters and rescue groups have reached a crisis point due to changing economic conditions and housing challenges.

However, providing immediate relief to this urgent challenge does not require a massive, impossible societal overhaul. Instead, PetRescue has highlighted a remarkably achievable statistic that puts the power directly into the hands of everyday Australians.

If just 1% of the Australian population chose to adopt a pet rather than source one elsewhere, it would create enough loving homes for every single pet listed on PetRescue for the next 3.5 years.

This "1% Shift" represents the next frontier of the rescue movement. By choosing a rescue pet, an individual isn't just bringing joy into their own home—they are actively relieving the immense pressure placed on the thousands of foster carers, rescue groups, councils, and shelter staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes. This community empowered effort turns a massive national problem into a series of small, highly achievable local victories.

What Makes Your Pet One in a Million?

To celebrate the diverse, quirky, and beautiful animals that make up this million-adoption legacy, PetRescue has officially launched the Happy Tails Gallery. This digital archive serves as a living tapestry of Australia's rescue stories, documenting the unique traits that make rescue pets irreplaceable.

Every rescue dog owner knows that it is the imperfections and eccentricities that truly define our bonds with them. It might be the specific, leaning hug they give you when you walk through the door, the bizarre "zoomies" they perform at the exact same time every evening, or a snoring habit that rivals a freight train. These quirks aren't flaws; they are the very things that make our pets individuals.

By sharing these real, unvarnished stories, current pet owners provide the ultimate inspiration for the next generation of adopters. When a prospective owner reads about a dog who overcame a rough start to become a beloved, goofy companion, it demystifies the rescue process. The gallery isn’t just for pets currently snoring on our couches, either; it also invites owners to honour those unforgettable rescue companions who have crossed the rainbow bridge, ensuring their part in the one-million-adoptions legacy is permanently recorded.

How You Can Help Shape the Next Million

National Pet Adoption Month is the perfect time to turn inspiration into action. Whether you are an experienced rescue advocate or someone considering a pet for the very first time, there are distinct ways to get involved:

• If You Have Adopted: Visually document your pet's life and head to the PetRescue Happy Tails Gallery to submit your story. Tell Australia what makes your rescue pet one in a million, and help inspire a prospective adopter who might be just need a little encouragement to see why adoption works!

• If You Are Looking to Adopt: Be part of the crucial 1%. Bypass the uncertainty of breeders and backyard schemes and explore the thousands of unique personalities waiting for a second chance on PetRescue. Every pet on PetRescue is listed by verified and reputable rescue organisations.

One million adoptions prove that when Australians are given the chance to see a pet for who they truly are, they choose love. Myka found her perfect match, and right now, the next history-making rescue dog is waiting to find theirs. 

By spreading the word, sharing your stories, or opening your doors, you can help ensure that the next million moments of connection happen even faster than the first.

Shaping Life-Changers: Meet the Hawkesbury Mother-and-Daughter Duo Raising Future Guide Dogs

With National Volunteer Week (18 to 24 May 2026) upon us, there is no better time to celebrate the unsung heroes of the canine world: our volunteers. In our Dog Care Champions spotlight this week, we head to the picturesque Hawkesbury region of New South Wales to meet an inspiring mother-and-daughter duo who are helping raise the next generation of life-changers.

Amy and her high-school-aged daughter, Lily, have spent the past four years volunteering together as Puppy Raisers with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. During that time, they have opened their hearts and their Glossodia home to six puppies, guiding them through the vital early stages of their journeys to becoming future Guide Dogs or Therapy Dogs.

We sat down with Amy and Lily to chat about the joys, the missing shoes, and the immense rewards of family volunteering.

In Conversation with Amy and Lily

Q: Where are you based?

Amy: We’re based near Glossodia, in the Hawkesbury region.

Q: How did you first get involved with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT?

Lily: My high school takes part in the Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Positive Paws Program, where a small group of students spend time with puppies and some of the older dogs each week. I’d always wanted a puppy, and after my first day at the program, I came home and told Mum all about the different ways you could volunteer with Guide Dogs. We signed up almost immediately.

Amy: We already had an older Shih Tzu at home and had been thinking about getting another dog anyway, so it felt like the perfect opportunity to give back to the community while having dogs around us.

Q: How many puppies have you raised so far?

Amy: We’re currently raising our sixth Guide Dogs NSW/ACT puppy. At the moment we have Harlow, Java and Dreya at home with us, and hopefully puppy number seven will join us soon. We tend to take on the girls because they don’t grow quite as big.

Q: What does puppy raising involve on a daily basis?

Amy: Along with raising puppies, we also temporarily care for dogs for other Puppy Raisers if they’re on holiday or unable to take their dog somewhere. Sometimes we can have up to eight dogs staying with us at once.

Lily: It can be busy, but we genuinely love every dog and puppy that comes through our doors. From training outings at local cafés and shops to early morning walks around Hawkesbury, the puppies have become familiar faces in the community.

Q: How does caring for a Guide Dog in training differ from owning a regular pet?

Amy: It’s not too different, but there are definitely more rules. You can’t always snuggle them the way you would another pet because you’re constantly reinforcing training and behaviours. We’re so used to it now though.

Lily: People also love stopping to chat when they see the Guide Dogs coat. They thank you, ask questions and sometimes even want photos with the puppies. "People stop us everywhere we go to ask about the puppies," which is lovely.

“You know you’re helping shape a dog that could completely change someone’s life one day...” — Amy

Q: What’s been your favourite part of the experience?

Lily: Picking up a new puppy is always so special. There’s something about that fluffy puppy coat and sweet puppy breath that only lasts a few weeks, but it keeps us coming back for more.

Amy: Seeing the dogs again after they’ve moved on is really special too. A lot of the puppies we’ve raised come back to stay with us temporarily, so you still get to see them grow up.

Q: Have you seen the direct impact these dogs have on people’s lives?

Amy: Absolutely. We’ve met so many people living with blindness or low vision through the program, and you can really see how much confidence and independence the dogs give them. They genuinely help people feel happier and more comfortable getting out into the community.

We’ve raised four dogs through the program so far, and while two eventually became pets instead, they’re still the most beautifully trained dogs. No complaints at all.

Q: What’s the most challenging part of puppy raising?

Amy: The puppy and teenage stages are definitely the hardest. You might lose a few shoes along the way, but you forget all about that when you look at the bigger picture.

Q: What would you say to someone considering volunteering?

Lily: You never forget any of the puppies you raise. They leave such a big imprint on your life.

Amy: Honestly, just do it. It’s one of the most rewarding things we’ve ever done. Even though giving the dogs back can be emotional, you know they’re going on to help someone live more safely and confidently. The community around Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is also incredible. There’s always support from other Puppy Raisers, temporary carers and the wider community. It’s such a lovely way to give back.

The Vital Impact of Volunteers

It takes more than two years and over $50,000 to breed, raise, and train each single Guide Dog. Remarkably, like all services provided by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, these highly trained dogs are given free of charge to the Australians who need them.

Eddie Sullivan, a Puppy Development Adviser with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, emphasizes that volunteers truly are the heart of the entire program.

“Guide Dogs simply wouldn’t be possible without our Puppy Raisers," says Eddie. "Watching a puppy grow, learn and develop into a future Guide Dog is incredibly rewarding. Our volunteers play a huge role in empowering Australians living with blindness or low vision, helping them live with confidence and freedom.” 

As the program proudly launches in Goulburn for the first time, the organisation is actively seeking fresh local faces to step up across NSW and the ACT.

Could You Be a Puppy Raiser?

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT covers all the primary essentials—including all puppy food, veterinary care, and flea/tick prevention—along with providing a dedicated Puppy Development Adviser to support you every step of the way.

Basic Volunteer Requirements:

✔ A safe, secure home and fully fenced yard.

✔ Access to a car.

✔ Commitment to attending regular training sessions (learning skills like sitting calmly for grooming and developing house manners).

✔ A lifestyle ensuring the pup is not left home alone for more than four hours at a time.

✔ A willingness to let the puppy sleep indoors and be a true part of the household.

"We're looking for people who are home or have enough flexibility in their day," Eddie adds. "You need to have the time to spend training and socialising a puppy. It's lots of fun and knowing you're helping change someone's life makes it even more special."

Beyond Puppy Raisers, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT currently has critical vacancies for foster carers, Therapy Dog handlers, and event volunteers across both NSW and the ACT.

How to Get Involved:

Ready to make a difference this National Volunteer Week? To discover all current volunteer opportunities or to submit your application, visit the official Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Volunteer Portal.

Position Vacant: Is Your High-Energy Rescue Dog Ready to Fill Bear’s Iconic Boots and Save Our Koalas?

If you have ever shared your home with a high-energy, toy-obsessed rescue dog, you know they can be an absolute handful. They are the dogs that never stop tracking, never stop pacing, and refuse to drop the ball, no matter how many times you throw it.

But what if those exact "problem" traits were actually superpowers in disguise?

Right now, a nationwide search is underway across Australia for a very specific kind of canine hero. The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), Innovation for Conservation, and the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Detection Dogs for Conservation (DDC) have teamed up to find a successor for a true legend: a koala detection dog named Bear.

Leaving Big Boots to Fill

If Bear’s name sounds familiar, it’s because he is world-famous. As an 11-year-old rescue dog, Bear became a pioneer in wildlife conservation, trained specifically to catch the scent of live koala fur.

During the devastating Black Summer bushfires, Bear stepped into the spotlight—quite literally wearing custom red protective fire boots—and successfully located more than 100 injured, displaced, or trapped koalas in need of urgent veterinary care. 

His heroic efforts earned him the admiration of animal lovers globally, even catching the attention of Hollywood stars like Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Earlier this year, after a decade on the frontline, Bear officially hung up his boots for a well-deserved retirement.

“Bear set the gold standard for koala detection dogs," says Josey Sharrad, IFAW Oceania’s head of programs. "He’s leaving very big boots to fill, but now it’s time to find his successor to follow in his pawprints and keep protecting koalas.”

While the team still has Loki—another vital detection dog on the squad—Loki’s job is a bit different. He is trained to find koala scat (poo) to map populations. The team now needs a new recruit who can look up and track live koalas hidden high in the tree canopy.

The Ultimate "Win-Win" for Rescue Dogs

The most beautiful part of this search? The team is looking exclusively for a rescue dog.

Often, dogs with an intense, obsessive drive struggle to find traditional family homes because their energy is simply too much for a standard suburban backyard. But for conservation work, that obsessive focus is exactly what makes them elite.

“By only recruiting a rescue dog, it’s a win-win," says Russell Miller, director and handler at Innovation for Conservation. "We're giving a dog the chance of a new life while helping our iconic koalas.”

The training process is intense. Teaching a dog to look up into the trees to detect an animal is one of the hardest jobs a handler can face. "Training Bear was a long journey," Miller admits. "But with the right expertise, we are hoping we can fast-track the process this time and get a new koala dog trained and working in time for the next bushfire season.”

To help make that happen, the new recruit will be trained under the guidance of Frédéric Chappée, IFAW’s director of canine units. Mr. Chappée brings over 20 years of experience, starting his career with dog units in the French army before training anti-poaching teams worldwide. He has even developed a specialised "doggy distance learning program" to oversee the Australian team’s progress alongside local, on-the-ground handlers.

“The performance of a conservation dog is never a miracle,” Mr. Chappée says.

“It’s the result of hard work, strategy, and respect from its handler and trainer. The dog’s dedication is immense, but our responsibility for them is just as great.”

L-R: Olivia Katz (UniSC) and Frédéric Chappée (IFAW) with the Detection Dogs for Conservation squad on the Sunshine Coast.

Does Your Pup Have What It Takes?

The team is actively looking for candidates, and they have a very specific checklist for their next superstar. They are searching for a rescue dog who is:

✔ Under two years old: Young enough to undergo rigorous training and have a long career ahead.

✔ 100% toy-obsessed: They must want to play every single day. For this dog, toys are king—they shouldn't care about other dogs or distractions.

✔ Zero prey drive: This is crucial. They must be completely non-aggressive and show absolutely no interest in chasing, hunting, or barking at other animals, birds, or cats—it is essential they show zero desire to hunt wildlife.

✔ Fearless and social: They need to be naturally confident, well-socialised with humans, and completely unfazed by new places.

✔ Goldilocks sized: A medium build is best—not so small that they struggle to navigate the thick Aussie bush, but not so big that a handler can't carry them over obstacles if needed.

✔ Fit and healthy: Ready for long, rugged bushwalks followed by even more playtime.

How to Apply

If you know a rescue pup on the Sunshine Coast (or anywhere in Australia via video assessment) who fits this description perfectly, this could be their ultimate calling. Testing takes a few hours in an unfamiliar location to see how the dog handles the challenge.

To nominate a dog and give them the ultimate promotion from "shelter pup" to "national hero," you can fill out the application form directly here.

🐾 Loved This Story? Read More From Our Archives:

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Go behind the frontlines with elite animal trainer Ryan Tate as he shares the raw reality, the extreme fitness requirements, and the tear-jerking emotional highs of working alongside conservation superstars in the Australian bush.

👉 Read: Conservation Detection Dog Handling: From One Dream Job to Another

The 90-Year Coincidence: Meet the Melbourne Nurse Who Has Spent 30 Years Crafting for Shelter Animals

MELBOURNE — This National Volunteer Week (May 18–24), an extraordinary double milestone is being celebrated at one of Melbourne’s most iconic animal welfare institutions. As the Lort Smith Animal Hospital marks its 90th year of service to the community, its longest-serving volunteer, Jocelyn, is celebrating her 90th birthday, too.

The synchronicity doesn't stop there. This year also marks exactly three decades since Jocelyn first walked through Lort Smith's doors to dedicate her time, hands, and heart to animals in need.

For 30 years, the energetic nonagenarian has knitted cosy coats, sewn enrichment toys, crafted Christmas bags, and raised thousands of dollars to support rescue animals. And despite reaching a milestone age, she has absolutely no intention of slowing down.

“I am not ready to retire! As long as I’m able I want to keep going – I’m not dead yet”!

“I want to see all the new things happening. Besides, Lort Smith keeps me sane. We all need to be needed – and I need Lort Smith as much as they need volunteers.” Jocelyn laughed.

According to Monica Polimeni, Lort Smith’s Volunteer Engagement Manager, having a volunteer stay dedicated for three decades is an extraordinary rarity in the modern charity sector, where the average tenure typically hovers around five years. Polimeni describes Jocelyn as a "true treasure" who epitomises the ultimate volunteer spirit—providing tireless care and support purely for the joy of making a difference, without ever expecting anything in return.

From the Hospital Ward to the Shelter

A master of her craft: For 30 years, Jocelyn has used her skills to create cosy blankets, toys, and specialised bags to support the shelter and its animals.

Long before she officially put on a volunteer lanyard, Jocelyn spent 18 years as a nurse in charge of the CT/MRI unit at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. Her unique profession occasionally allowed her to help animals in unexpected ways. Because the Melbourne Zoo's imaging equipment was too small at the time, some of their wild patients would occasionally be brought into her human medical unit for a scan.

Though Jocelyn has spent decades crafting for animals of all shapes and sizes, she admits to one major hurdle: she is "deathly allergic to cats." 

Jocelyn’s beloved dog, Phoebe,
who fuelled her lifelong
passion for canine welfare

Thankfully, her profound love for dogs has always kept her inspired.

“I said to my daughter, ‘when I retire, I’ll be doing what I can to help dogs.’ Animals never tell you that you’re horrible or smelly, they love you unconditionally,” she said.

Her soft spot for strays started in her childhood, often to her mother's dismay. “When I was younger, I used to pick up strays and mum would get upset because we already had three dogs! 

So, I made an agreement with the local butcher to clean up the shop at the end of the day in exchange for taking home bones for the dogs.”

A Connection Built on Gratitude

Dressed for the occasion, Jocelyn shares a happy moment with a shelter resident at Lort Smith.

Jocelyn’s first interaction with Lort Smith happened way back in 1965 when she brought home a flea-ridden stray dog. Stranded with a potential financial burden, she turned to the hospital for help.

“I would have struggled to pay the vet bill, and wouldn’t have been able to if not for Lort Smith and the way it operates,” Jocelyn recalled.

Decades later, she paid that kindness forward. While her absolute favourite role was running the hospital's former on-site gift shop, she proved to be a highly creative fundraiser.

“I made and crafted things that I could sell. From Christmas bags to bone and fish-shaped soft toys for animals. I made blankets, scarves with paw prints, anything that could support the hospital and the animals. I recall making hundreds of dollars in the first year.”

She also remembered running a popular roadside stall in the early days. “I crafted little sausage dogs with ears that button on and off that were really popular with kids. I ended up getting requests from friends at work, friends of friends, everyone! But they would have to pay – they were for a good cause and I didn’t want people to take advantage,” she smiled.

Her generosity expanded beyond the hospital walls during some of Victoria’s most devastating bushfires, where Jocelyn spent her time crafting specialised wildlife pouches to keep orphaned koalas, wombats, and joeys warm.

The Changing Face of Animal Care

Over 30 years, Jocelyn has watched Lort Smith evolve from a modest facility into a highly sophisticated, state-of-the-art veterinary hospital. The biggest change she notes is what she calls the "mod-con stuff."

“Everything has become much more modern in terms of technology and I imagine this will only continue as Lort Smith gets bigger,” she said.

Today, Jocelyn continues her work directly from the comfort of her home, sewing beautiful, custom quilts for the animals waiting for their forever homes at the Lort Smith Adoption Centre and Hospital. For Jocelyn, the journey has brought just as much joy to her life as she has given to the animals.

“I’ve made some amazing friends over the years. The friendships are what keep me going, and they are only ever a phone call away.”

"Whilst Jocelyn is unable to be onsite anymore, she spends her days ensuring the animals are kept warm with her blankets, spruiks to anyone who will listen about the wonderful care at Lort Smith, and continues to fundraise to ensure that the service remains second to none," says Lort Smith's Volunteer Management. "Jocelyn remains committed to returning the love and care she received so many years ago with her own dogs, and this is so admirable. She receives so much back, knowing her contribution continues to make a true difference."

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How to Get Involved: Volunteering at Lort Smith

Lort Smith is a not-for-profit organisation that depends greatly on the support of its donors and the local community. The massive task of loving, protecting, sheltering, and nursing animals back to good health is only possible thanks to a dedicated army of over 400 volunteers who work tirelessly every single day.

The scale of their impact is immense. So far this year alone, Lort Smith’s onsite volunteers have already contributed over 6,000 hours of their time, while the Pet Therapy teams have delivered more than 13,000 meaningful community interactions.

“We would be lost without our volunteers," says Monica Polimeni, Manager of Volunteer Services. "Each one plays a vital role in our mission to bring people together over a shared love of animals. Their compassion, commitment, and generosity embody the spirit of Lort Smith.”

Many people choose to step up because they’ve had wonderful experiences with their own pets and want to return the favour. For those inspired by Jocelyn’s 30-year legacy, the organisation offers a variety of deeply rewarding paths:

• Foster Care: Opening your home to provide temporary, vital care for animals undergoing medical treatment or awaiting adoption.

• On-site Support: Assisting directly at the facilities—whether spending vital hours managing the laundry, helping with administrative support, or assisting with adoptions at the Adoption Centre.

• Hospital Companionship: Providing friendship, a helping hand, and comfort to clients and families attending the North Melbourne Hospital.

• Pet Therapy: Visiting hospitals, care facilities, and justice settings with assessed, gentle dogs to bring comfort and smiles to people experiencing hardship. Read more about how the Lort Smith Pet Therapy program brings joy to the community.

One Small Smile Makes a Bigger Community

Volunteering doesn't just assist the shelter; it provides immense individual purpose and satisfaction. As the team at Lort Smith notes, one small smile, one helping hand, or one word of encouragement helps build a united community that makes an even bigger difference.

To celebrate National Volunteer Week 2026 or to start your own journey toward making a difference, readers can visit the official Lort Smith Volunteering Portal.

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Discover More Heart-warming Dog Stories:

• Volunteers Bring Joy Through Lort Smith’s Pet Therapy Program

• The Community Spirit Behind Fostering: Meet the Greyhound Foster Carers Making a Difference