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Name: Alisa
Title/role:Detector Dog Handler — Melbourne Gateway Facility, Australian Quarantine and Inspection Services
The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) manages quarantine controls at our borders to minimise the risk of exotic disease and pests entering the country.
Describe your typical day
When I arrive at work, I visit my canine partner 'Flame' in the kennel room to check her health. After this, I consult with the other detector dog handlers and plan a daily schedule. Once Flame begins sniffing mail, my task becomes very busy keeping up with her. In two seconds, Flame is able to sniff 350 letters, so it's my job to help her by preparing the mail in an orderly fashion so it is easy for her to search. Flame sniffs for up to an hour at a time, with rest periods in between. At the end of each day, I collect all of the items that Flame has found, and process them according to their risk. I also prepare training materials for the following day to keep Flame on her toes and make sure that she is constantly learning new things.
How did you get started in your job?
I always wanted to be a Veterinarian, but after completing four years of university (Bachelor of Science Degree with honours), I knew that I wanted a more hands-on job with animals.
Prior to joining the Detector Dog Unit, I worked very hard to become a senior quarantine inspector. I began observing other detector dog handlers and assisting them during work. I had to study and pass several exams and practical tests with two dogs.
What keeps you motivated?
I love it when my dog finds things, as it makes me feel very good that my training techniques have worked. So, I strive each day to find more things, particularly things that are harder for Flame to find. Knowing we can find and stop items at our border that may cause damage in Australia, therefore maintaining the healthy status of our country, keeps me very happy, and is very satisfying on a personal level.
What is the most interesting thing you have seen in your job?
Flame and I detected a tiny sample of seeds glued between the layers of a musical card. The seeds were highly prohibited, as they are a weed species in Australia.
What advice do you have for students still at school?
With anything, there is give and take, so if you put the effort in now while you can, you will receive the rewards later during whichever career path you choose.
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