Joe the Wonder Dog finalist for award

Just months after completing his first shift as a Gold Coast Airport employee, Joe the Wonder Dog is again in the spotlight after being named as a finalist for the Airport (Project) of the Year award at the Australian Airports Association (AAA) Airport Industry Awards 2011.

Provided by leading bird-strike management experts, Avisure, Joe the wonder dog is the latest weapon in managing the risk of bird-strike at the Gold Coast Airport and is now an integral part of the Airport’s bird mitigation and management operations.

Gold Coast Airport Chief Operating Officer Paul Donovan said the announcement of Joe as a finalist for the award is a significant step forward for the aviation industry in Australia.

“Safety at Gold Coast Airport is our first priority and of paramount importance. Like any airport, it is vital that we have an effective bird and wildlife management strategy in place for the safety of passengers, crew and aircraft.

"We are confident that Joe has become an important part of this strategy, and the award nomination is indicative of that.

“As the first airport in Australia to adopt this innovative approach it’s great to see it acknowledged at this level within the industry so quickly.

“In his short time here Joe has become a popular member of the team and we are proud of his achievements to date,” Mr Donovan said.

Avisure Director, Phil Shaw said he was pleased to be leading the way with Joe: “We are always searching for innovations that will make it safer to fly – using dogs is yet another tool that we offer our airport clients.”