Guide Dog Victoria Visit

Active Volunteering Welcomes Special Visitor, Nexus.

On Monday, 15 June, Rochelle and her Guide Dog Puppy in Training, Nexus, visited the M4, M5 and M6 classes as part of the students' Active Volunteering studies.

Rochelle shared information about her volunteer role raising puppies that will hopefully go on to become Guide Dogs for people with vision impairment. She spoke to students about the importance of volunteering, giving back to the community, and how even small acts of service can make a significant difference in the lives of others.

Students were fascinated to learn about the important work involved in preparing puppies for their future roles and the commitment required from volunteer puppy raisers. Rochelle explained that volunteers play a vital role in helping organisations provide support to people who need it most.

As part of her presentation, Rochelle explained that Guide Dogs and Guide Dogs in Training are legally permitted to accompany their handlers into most public places, businesses, events and on public transport. This access is protected under federal anti-discrimination legislation, allowing puppies in training to gain valuable experience in a wide range of environments as they prepare for their future working roles. The only exceptions are areas such as operating theatres and commercial kitchens where access restrictions apply.

The students loved meeting Nexus and felt very proud to be part of his training journey by welcoming him into their classrooms. Opportunities for Guide Dogs in Training to visit a variety of environments are essential, as they may encounter schools, children and many different community settings throughout their working lives.

At 11 months old, Nexus was a wonderful ambassador for the program. While wearing his training harness, he was calm and focused, quietly lying on the floor while Rochelle spoke to the students. Once his harness was removed, Nexus was rewarded with plenty of pats and enjoyed some up-close attention from the students, who were delighted to meet him.

Oliver said, "Nexus was so well behaved, and you could see how much work Rochelle does with him."

Tushar added, "Nexus was a good boy in his jacket, and then we could pat him when Rochelle took it off."

We thank Rochelle and Nexus for sharing their time, promoting the value of volunteering, and providing our students with such a memorable and educational experience.

Jo Larkin

Senior School Co-ordinator

Work Experience Co-ordinator