Spirit of Tasmania Adds New Pet-Friendly Accommodation & Extra Capacity Ahead of Inaugural Sailings

If a Tassie road trip with your pup has been on your bucket list, packing the family car is about to get a whole lot easier!

Spirit of Tasmania will launch additional sailing capacity and accommodation inventory across its much-anticipated new vessels, Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V, giving passengers greater choice ahead of the ships’ inaugural passenger sailings on 31 October 2026.

As Tasmania continues to attract record visitor demand—welcoming an all-time high of 1.4 million visitors in the year ending March 2026—the new vessels will play a vital role in supporting future growth and strengthening the connection between mainland Australia and the island state.

As a key gateway to Tasmania, the new vessels will help increase capacity across Bass Strait, supporting local tourism operators, businesses, and communities while making it easier for more Australians (and their four-legged family members!) to experience the state. The increased freight capacity will also provide greater opportunities for Tasmanian producers and businesses to get their products to mainland markets and, through established supply chains, reach customers further afield.

Game-Changing Perks for Pet Parents & Families

Historically, pets travelling across Bass Strait were accommodated in onboard kennels. While functional, many pet parents prefer keeping their fur babies right by their side. The new ships introduce a dedicated response to that demand:

☑️ Pet-Friendly Cabins: Passengers can choose from specialised pet-friendly cabins accommodating up to two pets per room, allowing dogs to sleep right in the cabin with their owners during the crossing.

☑️ Dedicated Outdoor Pet Deck: The new ships feature a purpose-built outdoor deck specifically for animals. This gives dogs a dedicated space for exercise, fresh air, and toilet breaks during the crossing.

☑️ Massive Capacity Upgrade: The new vessels are designed to carry an additional 470 passengers per sailing and feature 301 cabins, alongside increased vehicle capacity—including more than 3 times more capacity for caravans, campervans, and boat trailers.

☑️ 12-Month Advance Bookings: Passengers can access the expanded range of accommodation options, including new pet-friendly cabins, family cabins, deluxe options, and business recliners, with bookings available up to 12 months in advance.

A Distinctly Tasmanian Onboard Experience

Passengers travelling on the new vessels will discover a range of reimagined spaces celebrating Tasmania's landscapes, produce, stories, and makers long before touching land:

• Tasmanian Market Kitchen: A market-style dining experience featuring five food stalls showcasing a variety of cuisines and fresh Tasmanian produce.
• Mersey Café and Bar: Inspired by the iconic Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, serving barista coffee, snacks, and local beverages.
• Maatsuyker Bar: Offering casual dining and an expansive undercover outdoor deck overlooking Bass Strait.
• Cradle Lounge: Premium Tasmanian food and beverage offerings in a relaxed setting.
• Huon Lounge: Home to the Tassie Showcase program, bringing Tasmanian producers and makers directly to passengers throughout the year.

The ships also feature extensive Tasmanian artwork and locally sourced materials, including sustainably recovered Celery Top Pine supplied by Tasmanian company Hydrowood, alongside Huon Pine and Tasmanian Oak showcased throughout the vessels.

Please Note: Dogs are not allowed inside passenger lounges, dining venues (such as the Tasmanian Market Kitchen or Mersey Café), bars, or general passenger corridors.

Industry & Leadership Insights

Jeremy Rockliff, Premier of Tasmania, said:

"We are entering a new era for Bass Strait passenger travel and freight transport, with Spirit IV and V delivering an unrivalled travel experience.

The new Spirits offer expanded capacity, new accommodation options such as pet cabins, contemporary onboard spaces and a stronger showcase of Tasmania's best food, wine and craftsmanship. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to Tasmania on the new ships."

Chris Carbone, Spirit of Tasmania CEO, said:

"Tomorrow marks an exciting milestone as we open bookings for Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V and prepare to welcome passengers aboard for the very first time.

These vessels represent a new era for Bass Strait travel, with greater capacity, more accommodation choice and a contemporary onboard experience that is distinctly Tasmanian. From the onboard dining experiences to the Tasmanian producers, makers and materials featured throughout the ships, every element has been designed to showcase the very best of our island state."

Sarah Kingston Clark, CEO of Tourism Tasmania, added:

"The journey across the Bass Strait is part of a Tasmanian holiday, and the new Spirits will give travellers a taste of the island from the moment they step onboard.

Tasmania is a place meant to be explored at your own pace. With greater capacity and accessibility through the new Spirits, more travellers will be able to bring their car, caravan or bikes, giving them the freedom to take their time, get off the beaten track and discover more of our diverse regions.

Importantly, we know that travelling on the Spirit also delivers real value for Tasmania. Spirit visitors tend to stay longer, spend more and travel further across the island, helping to spread the benefits of tourism to operators and communities throughout our state."

Planning Your Ultimate Coastal Road Trip

For dog owners planning a multi-state coastal getaway, ferry travel opens up seamless, stress-free road trips. You can easily pair your trip across Bass Strait with a scenic coastal detour across Victoria's Port Phillip Bay using Searoad Ferries between Sorrento and Queenscliff—making the journey just as exciting as the destination.

Booking Details & Inaugural Sailings

• Inaugural Sailings: Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V will undertake their inaugural passenger sailings on 31 October 2026, departing from Geelong and Devonport respectively.
• How to Book: Bookings open from 10:00 am Wednesday, 16 September 2026. To lock in your pet-friendly cabin, family suite, or vehicle tickets up to 12 months in advance, visit www.spiritoftasmania.com.au.

Related Stories & Dog Travel Guides

• A Dog-Friendly Peninsula-to-Peninsula Spring Itinerary (Mornington to Bellarine via Searoad Ferries)
• Australia's Top 10 Pet-Friendly Drives & Coastal Road Trips
• Australia's Best Dog-Friendly Beaches

A new off-grid collaboration outside Sydney and Melbourne aims to fix "fake" pet-friendly travel with dedicated bushland stays for humans and hounds.

Anyone who has tried to plan a countryside getaway with a four-legged companion knows the familiar disappointment of the "dog-friendly" label. More often than not, it comes with a laundry list of caveats: dogs must remain outdoors, stick strictly to tiled utility rooms, or stay tethered while human guests enjoy the view.

It is a frustration shared by most pet owners. According to recent research commissioned by Australian fresh dog food company Lyka, 68% of owners who want to travel with their dogs name accommodation as their single biggest barrier, while 64% believe most 'dog-friendly' stays aren't actually designed with pets in mind.

A new collaboration between Lyka and off-grid cabin pioneer Unyoked is aiming to set a higher benchmark.

Available to book from September 21 to October 25, two Unyoked cabins—located in secluded bushland outside Sydney and Melbourne—are being thoughtfully reimagined as dedicated "Lyka Lodges." Rather than mere tolerance, the concept focuses on genuine pet wellbeing, matching the restorative nature of an off-grid cabin with thoughtful details for both four-legged guests and their owners.

Inside, guests will find a range of unique touches: matching green Lyka bed linen for humans alongside cosy orthopaedic dog beds, curated dog-centric books, interactive dog puzzles, complimentary poo bags, and even a dedicated "stick library" stocked for local trail walks.

Curated for local trail walks: Lyka’s signature 'Dog Stick Library' stationed outdoors in the bush.

Pets are welcomed with stocked Lyka treats—including Turkey Dental Jerky—while human guests receive an exclusive offer to sign up for Lyka, complete with a complimentary cooler bag to keep fresh dog meals cool during the drive.

The broader objective taps into something deeper than novel amenities.

“The noise and pace of modern life doesn't just wear on us, it wears on our dogs too. Time outside isn't a treat for them—it's a requirement.” — Cameron Grant, Co-Founder of Unyoked

Cassandra Do Carmo, Brand Director at Lyka, agrees: "A dog's health starts in the bowl and extends into all aspects of our lives together. Partnering with Unyoked brings both aspects of health together under one roof: fresh nutrition and time in nature."

With 78% of owners reporting that time in nature with their dog directly boosts their own mental health, the getaway serves as a dual reset: a chance for humans to unyoke from digital fatigue, and for dogs to simply be dogs.

Even after the initial Lyka Lodge pop-up concludes on October 25, the partnership will continue long-term, with select Lyka amenities—including dental chews, dedicated dog bowls, and poo bags—remaining standard for future Unyoked pet stays.

By The Numbers: The Pet Travel Gap

“Spending time outdoors with our dogs is one of the simplest ways to support our wellbeing, yet accommodation remains the single biggest barrier.” — Cassandra Do Carmo, Brand Director at Lyka

Data from a July 2026 survey of 341 Australian dog owners commissioned by Lyka highlights the demand for nature-based travel:

• 78% say spending time in nature with their dog benefits their own mental health.

• 79% say their dog loves being outdoors in nature.

• 65% wish it were easier to take their dog somewhere with genuine space and nature.

• 68% say accommodation is the biggest barrier to spending more time in nature with their pet.

• 64% believe most dog-friendly accommodation isn't actually designed with dogs in mind.

• 45% haven't taken an overnight nature getaway with their dog in the past 12 months.

• Only 19% say getting away with their dog is easy.

Unplugging in the bush: the off-grid setup at Farah Cabin, complete with an evening campfire pit.

Need To Know

• What: Lyka Lodge x Unyoked Pop-Up Cabins.

• Where: Secret wilderness locations outside Sydney & Melbourne.

• Booking Window: Stays available between September 21 – October 25, 2026 (Bookings open September 1).

• Inclusions: Lyka treats (Turkey Dental Jerky), dog puzzles, books, stick library, matching human/dog green bedding, complimentary cooler bag offer.

• Bookings: bookings.unyoked.co/au/lyka-lodge

Thoughtfully equipped: the cabin kitchenette comes stocked with Lyka treats, bowls, and a fresh-food travel cooler bag.

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.

Feel like staying the night? For a dog-friendly getaway right in town, The Queenscliff Hotel welcomes four-legged guests in their dedicated Casuarina Suite, complete with dog beds, food bowls, and arrival treats. After exploring the nearby beaches, take advantage of their complimentary on-site dog wash station before relaxing together in outdoor dining spaces like The Conservatory Courtyard or front terrace.

After exploring local beaches, canine guests can rinse off at the hotel's on-site dog wash.
Photo: The Queenscliff Hotel (Supplied)

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.

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).

Game-Changing Pet Safety: Tavo’s Crash-Tested Car Seats and Strollers Launch at Petbarn

If you’ve ever found yourself steering with one hand while holding off an overly enthusiastic pup with the other, you’re far from alone. Road trips, weekend getaways, and quick errands to the local vet are central to everyday life for Australian pet parents. Yet, keeping four-legged passengers properly secured behind the wheel remains one of the most overlooked safety challenges on Australian roads today.

Enter Tavo Pets, the premium pet travel brand redefining how we transport our cherished family members. Created by the expert engineering team behind the world-renowned nursery brand Nuna, Tavo brings juvenile-grade crash testing, European safety engineering, and luxury design directly into the pet travel market.

The best news for Australian dog lovers? Tavo’s flagship collection has officially landed at Petbarn, making its high-performance travel gear accessible online and across selected retail stores nationwide.

The Hidden Danger of Distracted Pet Driving

Behind Tavo’s refined aesthetic lies an urgent commitment to road safety. According to a 2025 Australian pet travel safety report commissioned by Tavo, more than 50% of Australian drivers reported experiencing a pet-related distraction while driving in the past 12 months.

While a pup curling up on a driver’s lap or resting its head on the window frame might seem harmless, road safety studies reveal a stark reality: in a collision at just 50 km/h, an unrestrained pet can be thrown forward with an impact force equal to 30 to 60 times its own body weight. An unsecured dog becomes an immediate danger not only to itself, but to every human occupant inside the vehicle.

"As pet ownership continues to evolve, expectations around quality, design, and functionality in pet travel are rising," explains Peter Leysen, Managing Director at Tavo Pets Australia.

"Every Tavo product is engineered to the same rigorous standards used for children's travel products, incorporating the trusted safety technology behind Nuna's award-winning baby strollers and car seats."

Touch, Try, and Test In-Store at Petbarn

While the convenience of online shopping is hard to beat, finding the right fit for your dog is infinitely easier in person. Having Tavo’s range on display in selected Petbarn stores allows pet owners to bring their dogs in, test internal dimensions, evaluate frame weights, and experience the tactile luxury of the materials firsthand.

In-store displays give owners the confidence to practice clicking the carriers into ISOFIX vehicle bases and test-driving the smooth manoeuvrability of the stroller frames.

"Having our products available in-store and online gives more pet owners the opportunity to experience the exceptional safety, functionality, and thoughtful design behind every product first-hand," says Britt Wainwright, Brand Manager at Tavo Pets Australia.

The Launch Collection: Built for Every Journey

Every product in the Tavo collection is evaluated against stringent United Nations ECE child restraint safety standards. To ensure maximum safety and comfort, Tavo incorporates energy-absorbing Tailor tech™ memory foam, high-density EPP foam surrounds, GREENGUARD Gold Certified fabrics, and naturally flame-resistant materials that are completely free from harsh chemical flame retardants.

1. Maeve™ 3-in-1 Pet Protection System (RRP $749)

The flagship Maeve is a complete, multi-functional travel ecosystem designed to function as a crash-tested car seat, cosy home-away-from-home bed, and luxury stroller pod.

It snaps into an included True Lock™ ISOFIX vehicle base complete with an energy-absorbing floor stability leg that minimises rotational force during sudden stops. When you reach your destination, a single button releases the carrier to attach seamlessly to the lightweight Roscoe Stroller frame (RRP $499).

✔ Sizing & Weight Limits: Small Flex (up to 9kg), Medium Flex (up to 11kg), and Medium Rigid (up to 13.6kg).

✔ Standout Details: Structural UPF 50+ canopy with MagneTech secure snap™ buckles, side impact protection (SIP) guards, two interior safety leashes, and dual machine-washable mattress pads featuring an eco-friendly antimicrobial comfort liner.

2. Crispin™ Impact-Tested Pet Crate (RRP $749)

For dog breeds needing extra headroom, longer laying room, or higher weight allowances, the Crispin Pet Crate offers a spacious "VIP lounge" experience.

Rather than relying on a separate base, the Crispin utilises integrated push-on lower anchor connectors and a top tether that lock directly into your car's seat anchors, preventing pets from roaming while driving.

✔ Sizing & Weight Limits: Small (up to 22.7kg), Medium (up to 24.9kg), and Large (up to 27.2kg).

✔ Standout Details: Engineered with a collapsible frame for space-saving boot storage, hidden zipper pockets for anchor straps when carried by hand, ventilated mesh windows, and an included travel carry bag and dust cover.

3. Dupree™ II Airline Carry-On Pet Car Seat (RRP $449)

Designed specifically for frequent flyers and jet-setting pups, the Dupree II bridges the gap between road and sky.

Built to comply with major airline cabin carry-on dimensions, it transitions smoothly from an ISOFIX-secured car seat to an under-seat plane carrier.

✔ Sizing & Weight Limits: Compact carry-on profile with a 9kg weight capacity.

✔ Standout Details: Equipped with built-in rigid ISOFIX latches for quick car installation, magnetic roll-down privacy panels, locking security zippers, a rear trolley sleeve to slide over rolling luggage handles, and an integrated tracking device holder.

Where to Find Tavo in Australia

The complete Tavo Pets launch collection is available now to explore online at Petbarn Online and at selected Petbarn retail stores across Australia.

FURTHER READING: Pet Car Travel Safety Worries in Australia

5-Star Pet Vacations: Newcastle Airport’s Stress-Free Pet Transit Lounge

With Pet Appreciation Week (PAW) in full swing across Australia from 7–13 June, the spotlight is firmly on the companionship, wellbeing, and joy pets bring to households around the country. But for dog owners bit by the travel bug, balancing a holiday with pet care can often be the most stressful part of trip planning.

At Newcastle Airport, more travellers than ever are looking for convenient and trusted pet care solutions while they are away. To celebrate Pet Appreciation Week and honour the important role pets play in the lives of travelling families, the airport has teamed up with Hunter Pet Motel to celebrate a growing demand for pet travel services—complete with some special surprises for incoming passengers.

At select times throughout the week, pet-owning passengers can collect complimentary show bags in Arrivals for their cats and dogs. Hunter Pet Motel donated hundreds of the cat and dog show bags for the airport team to hand out, with local Medowie dad Jason and his baby daughter Alexandra among those pictured picking up a doggy bag for their fur baby.

Mascot ‘Cate the Cat’ at Newcastle Airport handing out cat and dog showbags to Arrivals passengers. Medowie dad Jason is pictured with his baby daughter Alexandra who picked up a doggy bag.

Seamless Travel for Regional Jetsetters

The week also serves as a reminder of how much the travel landscape is evolving for regional pet parents. Since launching in 2023, Newcastle Airport’s Pet Transit Lounge has become a popular option for passengers wanting a seamless way to care for their pets while travelling.

The unique service allows customers to drop off their pets directly outside the terminal before parking and walking straight into the Departures Lounge, offering total peace of mind for pet owners as they travel.

Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said the service reflected the airport’s commitment to making travel easier and more convenient for regional travellers.

Convenience at the terminal: The dedicated Newcastle Airport Pet Transit Lounge makes curbside drop-offs seamless for travelling pet parents.

“With international services operating and passenger numbers continuing to grow, demand for pet boarding and pet transport services is also increasing,” Mr Horton said.

“At Newcastle Airport, we focus on creating the airport experience the region deserves, and that means thinking about every part of the passenger journey, including pets.

“Pet Appreciation Week is a great reminder of just how important pets are to so many families across our region and the Pet Transit Lounge has become a really valued service for travellers wanting peace of mind while they are away.

“It’s a genuinely unique offering and one that continues to resonate strongly with our passengers.  

“People love the convenience of being able to drop off their pets right at the terminal knowing they’ll be well looked after while they travel.” 

“As we expand our domestic and international routes, we expect demand for pet transit and boarding services to grow alongside it. More people are travelling, more families are taking holidays, and increasingly pets are part of those travel plans.”

What Happens When Your Pet Goes On Vacation?

Once pets are dropped off at the Newcastle Airport transit terminal, they are transported via purpose-built pet transport vehicles to Hunter Pet Motel’s facility at Elderslie. From there, the animals enjoy a holiday of their own, complete with tailored care, spacious accommodation, and supervised play areas.

A holiday of their own at
the Elderslie facility

Unlike many standard boarding facilities, Hunter Pet Motel does not co-board pets. Every dog enjoys their own private room and backyard, while each cat has their own private accommodation. 

Pets can also enjoy supervised exercise, play sessions up to three times a day, and an on-site swimming pool.

For added peace of mind, owners can choose to receive photo updates via email or text message, allowing them to see what their furry family members are up to during their stay.

Hunter Pet Motel owner Charmaine Smith said Pet Appreciation Week was the perfect opportunity to recognise the special role pets now play in Australian families and the growing demand for trusted pet care while people travel.

“Pets are very much part of the family these days and people want complete peace of mind knowing they’re leaving them in safe and caring hands while they’re away,” Ms Smith said.

“Being located directly at Newcastle Airport makes travelling with pets incredibly convenient. Travellers can arrive, check in their pets and head straight to their flight without adding another stop to the journey. It’s all part of making travel easier and less stressful.

“We’ve seen a growing demand since launching the service, particularly as more people choose to fly locally from Newcastle rather than driving elsewhere. People are embracing the convenience of flying from the airport that’s just up the road and that creates opportunities for businesses like ours as well.

“Our team is passionate about making sure every pet feels safe, comfortable and cared for while their owners are away. 

“For many of the animals who stay with us, it becomes a holiday of their own.” 

Cheeky Guests, Bulldogs, and... Ostriches?

According to Ms Smith, the facility treats every pet as an individual, which leads to some incredibly entertaining guest personalities.

“And we know the pets enjoy their stay," Ms Smith laughed. "One of our regular cats loves being groomed with the long-handled broom. There’s no sweeping allowed unless she gets brushed first.

“Some of our feline guests are just as cheeky as the dogs. We have a few clever cats who use exercise time to investigate the shelves in search of treat bags. Their determination and problem solving skills never fail to entertain our staff, who have learned to keep a very close eye on any snacks left within reach.

“Some of our most entertaining regulars are four Bulldogs whose cheeky personalities keep our team smiling every visit.

“We’ve also had a few dogs over the years whose love of tennis balls could only be described as an obsession. One particular guest carried a tennis ball everywhere he went, to breakfast, to playtime and even while greeting staff.

“And while cats and dogs are our most common visitors, they’re certainly not the only animals we've cared for. One of our more memorable transport jobs involved collecting three baby ostriches destined to become lawn mowers on a rural property. That was definitely a day our team won’t forget anytime soon.”

Community Heart and Looking Ahead

While the week is filled with celebration, it also comes following the recent passing of Hunter Pet Motel General Manager Brett Wild, who was a passionate advocate for animal care and a valued local business leader. Newcastle Airport extends its deepest condolences to Brett’s family, friends, and the Hunter Pet Motel team during this difficult time, remembering his legacy of dedication to the region's pets.

Looking forward, the partnership between the airport and the pet motel is set to thrive. As Newcastle Airport continues to grow, so does the opportunity for local pet-centric businesses to expand alongside it. Increased domestic and future international connectivity is creating exciting opportunities for the broader pet travel industry across the Hunter region.

The HPM Transit Lounge is part of Newcastle Airport's broader commitment to enhancing the customer experience. Hunter Pet Motel is also proud to offer discounts for APOD (Defence and ex-Defence) members, discounted rates for extended stays, and complimentary washes and toys for eligible guests.

More Info: For bookings and more information on the transit service, visit newcastleairport.com.au/at-the-airport/pet-transit-lounge or contact the Hunter Pet Motel directly on (02) 4938 3710.