The Cutest Paw-fficer of Whitsundays Coastal Airport

The mayor meeting his new coworker on the council, GJ. Photo supplied: Mayor Ry Collins.  

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Between the check-in counters, security and departure gates at Whitsunday Coast Airport, there is one team member whose job is to bring a little more ease to passengers before they fly.

Meet GJ, Whitsunday Coast Airport's four-legged therapy dog. Since joining the airport earlier this year, the chocolate Labrador has been swapping boarding passes for belly rubs, helping bring a sense of calm to travellers before they take to the skies.

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Trained and assessed through Therapy Dogs Australia, GJ is right at home in the busy airport environment. Whether it's a wagging tail, a gentle nudge of the nose or sitting quietly beside someone, he's always happy to brighten a passenger's day and help ease any pre-flight nerves.

GJ's airport journey began after his family reached out to Whitsunday Coast Airport following his qualification as a therapy dog.

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The partnership complements the airport's focus this year on creating a smooth and stress-free travel experience, alongside initiatives like its free curbside assistance program.  

GJ's role is also set to extend beyond the terminal, with the four-legged ambassador soon joining Whitsunday Regional Council's Book Magic program, helping children build confidence and a love of reading through the calming presence of a canine companion.

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GJ was unable to comment on this story as he is enjoying some much-deserved annual leave this August and will return, tail wagging, come September.  

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