Australian military working dog teams

The use of dogs in war is neither unusual nor novel. Canines have supported soldiers for many years and have been involved in numerous wars. In more modern times, the human knowledge of canines has broadened as soldiers realised that dogs can do a lot more in a battlespace than just point out where the enemy might be hiding and physically attack on command.

Some military working dogs have been bred, trained and combined into the combat capability of a defence force unit and provide ongoing security to air bases, combat units, fighting patrols and surveillance capabilities.

There have been occasions where dogs have provided support to their soldier-boss in areas for which they were never trained and succeeded in literally saving the lives of the human part of their team using canine instinct and on-the-spot behaviour.

This presentation takes you on a journey that includes some history of Australian dog teams at war followed by an insight into some of the research and development of both living canines and robotic ones as well. Be prepared for some surprises and delights along the way.

The presenter, Lieutenant Colonel George Hulse OAM (Retd), has written two books on Australian military working dogs, has spent many years researching canines for military use and was the inaugural commander of the Australian Army Mine Dog Wing at the School of Military Engineering in 1971.

After the talk, visitors can stay to explore the Memorial Galleries, embarking on an interactive journey from the First World War to today, before taking time to reflect on the remarkable stories of bravery and sacrifice in the tranquil parklands.

Anzac Square Memorial Galleries is located at 285 Ann Street, Brisbane. Entry is through the double brass doors located beneath the Shrine of Remembrance.