- PODCAST -
EPISODE 004
Beyond Duty: A Conversation with Ben MacKenzie, Former Dog Handler, Queensland Police.
The role of K9 handler within the Queensland Police Service (QPS) is not just a job; it's a way of life. It demands extraordinary commitment, time, and passion for working with dogs. These officers, responsible for some of the force's most talented and vital members - their K9 partners, play an instrumental role in keeping the community safe and ensuring law and order. The impact of a good K9 handler goes beyond the police force; it extends to the broader community.
A day in the life of a QPS K9 handler is not limited to regular shifts; it extends beyond the boundaries of work hours. Handlers are responsible for the welfare of their loyal canine companions, who live with them day in and day out. The bond between a handler and their K9 goes beyond professional duties; it becomes a heartfelt connection of trust and reliance.
PART 1
In the first of three parts, respected former QPS K9 handler Ben MacKenzie discusses his journey to becoming a K9 handler, reflects on his time with the Brisbane Dog Squad, the camaraderie within the K9 Unit…..
PART 2
In the second part, we delve into the multifaceted world of police dog work, the demanding physical and emotional nature of the job, the experience of working dogs within the family environment, and the Dog Squad's role in supporting search…
PART 3
In the third and final part Ben reflects on watching his dogs grow and develop, overcoming obstacles, and contributing significantly to investigations and operations, the extraordinary commitment, time, and passion for working with dogs…
Whilst being a K9 handler is undeniably one of the most rewarding positions a police officer can hold within the QPS, it demands immense time and commitment. As each K9 lives with its handler, caring for the dog doesn't stop when the officer's shift ends. The handlers must ensure their loyal companions are fed, played with, loved, and cared for daily, even on their days off. The bond formed during their time together is irreplaceable, and the dogs become cherished family members.
Recently, the Virtus House Kennel Kast had the opportunity to interview respected former QPS K9 handler Ben MacKenzie, who shared his journey and experiences in our latest podcast, 'Beyond Duty: A Conversation with Ben MacKenzie, Former Dog Handler, Queensland Police'. Our fourth podcast offers valuable insights into the multifaceted world of police dog work, Ben's motivations, career progression, and his experiences working with K9 partners PD Tank and PD Kadar.
Ben's journey began after completing high school in 1993. Initially drawn to serving in the Army, he encountered a hurdle due to being colourblind, leading him to explore other career options. He pursued a degree in Justice Administration (now Criminology) and joined the Queensland Police Academy in 1998. The dream of becoming a K9 handler was instigated during his early career at Logan, where he witnessed the impressive capabilities of the Logan Dog Squad, particularly in tracking and apprehending offenders.
Ben's parents' veterinary background and profound love for dogs made the transition into law enforcement with a focus on working dogs a natural and fulfilling choice. Competition to join the QPS Dog Squad was fierce, with an average of 60 applicants vying for each vacancy. After gaining enough experience, he eventually became part of the Brisbane Dog Squad in 2006.
Reflecting on his time as a K9 handler, Ben speaks passionately about the strong bonds he formed with PD Tank and PD Kadar and the camaraderie within the K9 Unit. Working on tracks and apprehending were all part of their fulfilling and sometimes challenging routine. However, their roles went beyond just apprehending criminals; they also played a crucial role in finding missing persons and supporting search and rescue missions, such as the 2011 Grantham floods search and rescue mission.
Throughout his career in the Dog Squad, Ben faced numerous challenges and heartwarming and heartbreaking moments. He enjoyed watching his dogs grow and develop, overcoming obstacles, and contributing significantly to investigations and operations.
Like any profession, there are sacrifices involved. The demanding nature of the job can be physically and emotionally taxing. Handlers often work long hours, frequently at night, and spend time away from their families. Yet, they take pride in their contribution to public safety and recognise the fulfilment of their roles.
Ben believes at the core of a successful K9 team lies trust. This trust is built through continuous training and nurturing the bond between the handler and their dog, which extends beyond work hours in the case of the QPS. Handlers must be confident that their four-legged partner will perform flawlessly during critical operations.
This level of trust is built over time through countless hours of training, continuous learning, and shared experiences. Handlers spend their days teaching their dogs to track and apprehend offenders and ensuring they have the necessary skills to handle situations that might arise on the job and perform as they were trained to do in critical situations.
Despite the immense satisfaction and thrill he derived from the job, Ben eventually transitioned to a leadership role within the QPS, driven by personal growth and a desire to contribute to the well-being and development of fellow officers and the community. Today, Ben leads a General Duties station, focusing on staff welfare and mentoring young officers.
Ben's experiences as a K9 handler in the Queensland Police Service reveal it is one that demands dedication, unwavering commitment, and a genuine love for dogs. While the role comes with challenges, the rewards of forming unbreakable bonds with their four-legged partners and contributing to the safety and security of the community make it an exceptional and cherished career path for those willing to take on the responsibility.
