Morning Tea for the Official Presentation of Queensland Police Service Recruit Dog ‘Gavel’

Commissioner, members of the QPS Senior Executive, ladies and gentlemen, and, of course, Gavel (who has his own place card today, so he knows where to stand!).

It is Kaye’s and my great pleasure to welcome you all to Government House today. We are equally delighted to be welcoming Gavel into the Government House fold.

There was, admittedly, some vacillation over the name. We had considered Guber, as in gubernatorial; or Soda, the pooch of Queensland’s second Governor, Sir Samuel Blackall, from Old Government House. But we had in mind, rightly as it turns out, a confident, inquisitive young pup, one to assist, we hope, in the dispensation of justice for the benefit of the people – hence ‘Gavel’.

(In the interests of full disclosure, ‘Gavel’ also happens to be my call sign as Honorary Air Commodore of No. 23 (City of Brisbane) Squadron…)

The intention is very much that Gavel becomes part of Government House life – attending receptions, meeting State callers… He’s already sat in on a number of staff meetings, including in the Governor’s Study! During his 12 month stay, Gavel will also undertake basic obedience training, and return to the Dog Squad complex for extra development.  

I can assure you, Commissioner, Sergeant Purvey (pron. Per-vee), he will be much loved here, even, during these early stages, by those who are, with an open mind, tending to his puppy ways…

Today also provides Kaye and me with an opportunity to once again, in a central way, acknowledge the immense dedication and beneficial service of our police personnel – the maintenance of our society very much depends on your highly professional contributions; thank you.

It is my great pleasure to now call forward the Commissioner and Sergeant Purvey, for the official presentation of Gavel to Government House.