From a young age, Dave dreamed of being a policeman, inspired by early experiences and playing with boxes that he labelled "police."

He joined the Queensland Police in 1989, driven by a desire to make a difference, and soon became a respected officer.

A chance conversation led Dave to the competitive dog squad, where he found his calling and passion for working with police dogs.

Over 26 years, Dave formed strong bonds with dogs like Buddy, Zed, Vader, Axel, and Jet, each with unique traits and abilities.

His career includes stories of tracking offenders, rescuing people in dangerous situations, highlighting the vital role of his canine partners.

Despite tough times and PTSD, his dedication to his dogs and the community helped Dave overcome personal and professional challenges.

Axel, one of Dave's beloved dogs, became a local icon, celebrated with a statue in Cairns, honouring Dave's contributions and his dogs' impact.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us, produced by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Plume started his extraordinary musical journey as a young drummer and songwriter, developing his passion for creating melodies and performing.

Over two years ago, he moved into singing to cows, discovering their surprising appreciation for music, which encouraged him to continue this unique path.

As Plume's animal-focused performances gained exposure, his gigs shifted from human audiences to structured environments like shelters, where animals are treated well.

He has witnessed touching reactions, like a giraffe appearing to cry during his performance, and a parrot that danced to his tunes.

Singing to animals has deepened Plume's understanding of their emotions, observing behaviours like familial affection and bonding through music.

Plume leverages social media to raise awareness about animal welfare, encouraging veganism by sharing educational resources and personal experiences.

You can find Plume at @plumes.official on Instagram and Facebook where he shares his love for animals inviting followers to explore the beauty of music-inspired animal connections.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

Andrew grew up in Sydney with a rare bone disorder (XLH), underwent painful surgeries, and experienced contrasting childhoods with his healthy twin brother.

Despite physical challenges, Andrew pursued music and sound engineering, then became a Bunnings manager, utilising his organisational and managerial skills.

At 24, Andrew confronted robbers at Bunnings, displaying bravery but subsequently faced trauma, legal challenges, and lack of workplace support.

Andrew struggled with PTSD after the robbery, facing workplace pressures and critical remarks, ultimately resigning to focus on his mental health.

A stray cat named Sergeant Pepper provided emotional support, helping Andrew through depression and reminding him of the importance of caring for others.

Inspired to help others, Andrew transitioned to teaching students with special needs, finding fulfilment and daily gratitude in positively impacting their lives.

Despite past violence, Andrew focuses on humanity's goodness, suggesting selfless acts and nurturing relationships, with people and animals, as keys to happiness and overcoming adversity.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

YouTube || Facebook || Instagram || LinkedIn || Website

Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd