MILITARY WORKING DOGS
Australian Military Working Dogs (MWDs) are highly trained canines that play a crucial role in the Defence Force, providing vital support in various military operations. These exceptional dogs undergo rigorous training to assist in tasks such as detecting explosives, tracking and apprehending suspects, and providing protection to military personnel. Their keen senses and unparalleled loyalty make them indispensable assets in both domestic and international missions. Whether deployed in combat zones, assisting in search and rescue missions, or contributing to security efforts, Australian MWDs exemplify the dedication and bravery of the Defence Force, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of military operations.
The Australian Defence Force does not have a duty-of-care to Military Working Dog (MWD) veterans when their service ends. Because of the typical age of MWD retirement, the people who take on responsibility for veteran dogs are unable to take out pet insurance to help with the costs of their veterinary care. Unfortunately, many of the health costs come at the end of a dog’s life. This can be a significant impost on those that have given our military working dogs their retirement home. There is currently no Department of Veterans Affairs waiting to support our war dogs when they retire. We owe them so much, at least to make their last few years of life comfortable and provide them with the medical treatment they need. The Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation has a program in place to financially help and support these veteran Aussie MWDs.
Sutherland Shire’s Retired Military Working Dog, Manic.
Meet Manic, Cronulla RSL's first honourary four-legged member and retired Military Working Dog, whose legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire the community. Manic had a distinguished career in the Australian Defence Force, throughout his service, he played a vital role in numerous operations both internationally and abroad. Now retired, Manic remains a symbol of courage and commitment, reminding us of the invaluable contributions of Military Working Dogs to our nation's security.
Manic was surrendered to the pound as a puppy but found his calling when the Australian Defence Force (ADF) purchased him from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for $8 at approximately one year old. A Belgian Malinois (a breed known for its work ethic, athleticism and intelligence), Manic was trained to be a combat assault dog, and deployed on multiple operations both internationally and domestically. His work was classified, but his impact was profound. Manic was among the more than 40 dogs deployed by the ADF, 10 of whom made the ultimate sacrifice, with one still missing in action and presumed deceased.
After retiring in 2021, Manic settled in the Sutherland Shire. His remarkable journey continued when he became the Club’s first four-legged honorary member. This connection led to the discovery of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organization (AWAMO) and the Veteran Assistance Dog Program, which support retired Military Working Dogs.
Blowing in: Manic was trained in door breaching; a process used by military, police, or emergency services to force open closed or locked doors.
Helo: Manic was trained in helicopter (helo) operations, to handle the unique challenges of aerial deployment.
Fast Roping: Manic was trained to fast rope; this is a technique for descending a thick rope, allowing troops to deploy from a helicopter in places where the aircraft cannot touch down.
Manic is Cronulla RSL’s first honourary four-legged member.
Manic is an Ambassa-dog for the Australian War Memorial Organisation.
How Cronulla RSL Support Military Working Dogs
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Cronulla RSL’s CEO Sue McNeill says ‘We were approached by Manic’s handler in 2021, to get permission for Manic to visit the club after the ANZAC Day Dawn Service. We approved without hesitation; service dogs are diggers too!’.
The Club was so welcoming, that Manic was announced as the first honorary four-legged member and was issued his own membership card.
‘We were so touched by Manic’s story and saddened to hear of the limited support war dogs and their handlers receive after their service, that we were inspired to help do what we could to make a difference’ said McNeill. ‘We hope that our efforts encourage other clubs to support their local service dog, and get behind the AWAMO’.
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Cronulla RSL unveiled a memorial garden and plaque dedicated to animals who have served during times of war & peace, the first of its kind in New South Wales at an RSL Club.
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Cronulla RSL fundraising activities on ANZAC Day 2021, 2022 & 2023, have raised over $22,000 to support the efforts of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) & Veteran Service Animals.
Because of the typical age of military working dog’s retirement, the people who take on responsibility for veteran dogs are unable to take out pet insurance to help with the costs of their veterinary care. Unfortunately, many of the significant health costs come at the end of a dog’s life. This can be a significant impost on those that have given our military working dogs their retirement home.
AWAMO is a volunteer not-for-profit organisation made up of community members from diverse backgrounds, that have the like-minded aim to recognize the deeds of animals during Australian military service, and to educate generations to follow of the sacrifices of four legged diggers have made.
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On Friday 24th February in 2023 & 2024, Cronulla RSL recognised National War Animal Day, and the important roles that animals have and continue to play in war. A special memorial service was held at the Club’s Memorial Garden.
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Cronulla RSL encourage other clubss to include War Animal Day in their organisation’s commemorative calendar. They have created useful resources and templates to download.
Manic at War Animal Day
Manic proudly wears his medals
Manic winning the ClubsNSW Award
Manic on stage
Manic on stage at Awards Night
Manic
Manic watching over two-up on ANZAC Day
Manic is a honorary four-legged member at Cronulla RSL
Manic at War Animal Day
Manic at Two-Up on ANZAC Day
Manic with Police Horses on War Animal Day
Manic opening the Club's memorial garden dedicated to animals impacted by war
Manic at the Animal Memorial Garden
Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation
The Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation Inc. (AWAMO), a registered not-for profit Incorporation, that has four main core activities.
The establishment of memorials.
Fiscal and material sponsorship to veteran Service dogs.
Education.
Sponsorship to other animal projects assisting veterans or animals
War Animal Day
National War Animal Day honours the important roles that animals have and continue to play in war, by holding a special memorial service
Retired Military Working Dog Assistance Project
AWAMO has a program in place to financially help and support these veteran Aussie MWDs.
Why War Animal Day is important to Cronulla RSL
Awards & Recognition
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RSL & Services Club - Highly Commended
Cronulla RSL has been recognised by RSL & Services Clubs Association, for its outstanding contribution to members and the local community throughout the past 12 months, being awarded the “Spirit of ANZAC Award - Highly Commended”.
The award shines a spotlight on RSL clubs around the nation, who epitomise the sacrifice of those who served in the defence of our nation and in the traditions of the ANZAC's – courage, endurance, initiative, discipline and mateship.
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ClubsNSW Community Awards - Winner
Retired military war dog Manic was the centre of attention when Cronulla RSL Memorial Club took out a major award at the NSW Clubs and Community Awards Night. The Cronulla club won the ClubsNSW Heart of the Community Award for its work in supporting Manic and the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation.
Media & Press
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Channel 7 - Sunrise
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Channel 9 - Today Show
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Channel 9 - Nine News
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Channel 9 - Nine News
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The Leader - War Animal Day
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ClubTV - Club Community Awards
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The Leader - Memorial Service
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Ten - Studio 10
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Channel 9 - Nine News
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The Leader - Funds Raised
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Military Working Dogs
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