Guide Dog Davey warming hearts

A Guide Dog named in honour of Senior-Constable Dave Masters, who lost his life in the line of duty three years ago, has paid another visit to Deception Bay Police Station to visit his namesake’s colleagues.

It’s the latest in a series of regular visits to the station – but this occasion was particularly special because Davey brought with him his new owner, Barb.

Sen-Constable Masters, who was based at Deception Bay Police Station, was tragically killed on the Bruce Highway at Burpengary while on duty on June 26, 2021.

Welcome visits

Deception Bay Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Jason Higgs encourages Davey’s visits, saying they are valued by his staff and the Masters family, and it is always a happy time despite the circumstances surrounding how Davey came into their lives.

“Davey has become a valued member of the Deception Bay Police Station family,” Sen-Sgt Higgs says.

“His personality and nature are a true reflection of our colleague and mate, Dave Masters.

“The entire station really enjoys regular visits from Davey, who never fails to bring a smile to our faces with his mischievous and cheeky personality.”

Match ‘meant to be’

Davey’s June 12 visit allowed him to visit his “blue family” and introduce Barb to the Deception Bay police team.

Barb says she’s so happy to have Davey in her life.

“Davey was just meant to be”, Barb says.

Her last Guide Dog was forced to retire a few months ago after developing epilepsy, but Barb believes things happen for a reason and says she knows she was always destined to have Davey.

Barb’s familiar with the Masters family - she was a customer in the bank where Dave’s wife, Sharon, worked.

As well, Barb’s daughter went to school with Dave and Dave died on Barb’s husband’s birthday.

Precious support

Moreton Region Crime Prevention Unit community engagement officer Senior-Constable Jo Arthur says Davey is still settling in with Barb, who is a little worried he might lead her astray.

“He has been known to help himself to the self-serve dog treats at her local supermarket and she thinks that having an association with police might be a good thing to keep Davey on the straight and narrow,” Sen-Constable Arthur laughs.

Dave’s brother, Al, and his wife Liz were also there to see Davey, meet Barb and represent the Masters family.

“To have a dog named after Dave, to see him mature, have a personality as Dave did, and to meet his new handler Barb, makes us as a family really appreciate the people who support us,” Al and Liz said.