From investigating fires to providing mental health crisis support. Two extraordinary dogs have been crowned 2025 CANINE HEROES by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) canine ‘Gandalf’ and community support dog ‘Ollie’ have been chosen from a long list of remarkable contenders to win the prestigious 2025 RAS Canine Hero Awards, held in conjunction with the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

The awards, in the categories of ‘service’ dog and ‘companion dog’, aim to honour two ordinary dogs who’ve supported humans in an extraordinary way across the year, impacting lives through acts of courage, loyalty and devotion.

‘Gandalf’ who retires at the end of 2025 has served in a critical role with FRNSW Ignitable Liquid Detection

Canine Unit since 2018, using his exceptional scent skills to assist in fire investigation and cause determinations. Amidst hazardous and often chaotic fire scenes Gandalf is able to calmly and meticulously discriminate between hundreds of scents, pinpointing trace amounts of ignitable liquids.

The 8 1/5-year-   old Labrador’s skills have not only resulted in many criminal prosecutions but are relied upon to keep his human investigative colleagues safe while doing their jobs. In 2024 Gandalf embraced a new role, training next generation fire detection puppy ‘Siren’ with willingness and great patience.

Gandalf’s handler Tim Garrett says his partner is more than a working dog “he’s a trusted team member, a skilled investigator and true canine hero whose work ethic and contribution to law enforcement and public safety is immeasurable”.

‘Companion Dog’ Canine Hero award winner Ollie has been recognised for her selfless work providing comfort and kindness to those in the greatest need. With handler Judi Sandilands-Cincotta the 6 year old Labrador visits courts, libraries, schools, and ambulance stations in association with services including Lifeline and the Canine Court Companion Program.

“Ollie has an incredible intuition and empathy, she instinctively knows when someone is struggling and whether licks and cuddles are needed or just her loving companionship” says Sandilands-Cincotta.

Canine Hero Judge and Domestic Animals Chair John Bryson says the awards are a celebration of mans best friend, “we are always in awe of the dogs entered and recognising them and sharing their stories also shines a light on the vital programs they’re a part of that transform lives in the community.”

Gandalf, Ollie and their handlers will be presented with their awards including a $1500 cash prize each thanks to the Australasian Animal Registry on ‘Best in Show’ day, Monday 21 April at the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show. Gandalf’s prize will be donated to The Burns Unit at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

Pre-Show Interviews avail: Tim Garrett FRNSW, Judi Sandilands-Cincotta

BIS Day Interviews: Tim Garrett (Gandalf & puppy Siren), Judi Sandilands-Cincotta (Ollie)

File Vision avail: Gandalf working on fire scene

Photos: Available at the end of the competition day

Nicola Dalby

Manager – Communications and Public Relations

T: (02) 9704 1041

M: 0434 579 906

E: ndalby@rasnsw.com.au