MEET THE TEAM

Julie

As Founder of SARDA 1994, Julie has had Operational dogs for the 30 years since inception.

Operational dogs in LandSAR, USAR, Human Remains Detection and Human Remains Water Detection.

Julie continues to access the best trainers and training methods to keep her and SARDA teams at International Levels.

Andrew

Andrew came on board with SARDA in 2002, having had Operational dogs in LandSAR and USAR and continues to train SARDA teams to International level. As lead trainer of the unit, his commitment to finding the best in every team he oversees is undeniable whilst also training and working his own K9’s to operational status and deployment.

Aleks

As a Therapist in Community Services she joined SARDA in 2018 after searching for the right job for her K9 Misia, who wasn’t suited to the intended role of therapy dog. Aleks was determined to lead a fulfilling life with her intelligent but ‘high drive’’ dog. After attending one day of training the rest is history! Aleks is now a dual certified handler, with two accredited K9’s – Misia in Landsar and Kaia who is certified in Human Remains Detection.

Dagmara

Dagmara joined the unit and commenced training during the pandemic, despite the challenges of lock down disruptions, her team was assessed and became successfully operational at the end of 2022 and they have been called upon for many deployments since.

Kai

Kai has been a volunteer with the unit from his mid teens. Now with K9 Archie, He has successfully completed his accreditation and they are an operation Landsar team.

Kate

With a background in event management and additional training in Disability Support.
Commencing training with SARDA as ‘missing person’ for the dogs at training to find. Katelyn has embraced the opportunity to learn the many other skills involved in supporting Emergency Services to deploy.

Chris

Chris is a life member of the unit. An avid dog lover and trainer, He has trained with Andrew & Julie for many years and is dedicated to supporting the new teams as they make their way towards assessments & often supports deployment.

Lindsay

Lindsay was born to serve. A dedicated SES member and volunteer. SARDA has benefited from her commitment & knowledge to emergency services. After some time learning the ropes, Lindsay developed a bond with her K9 team mate Stitch, and are a working operational Landsar team.

Mark

Mark is full of energy and enthusiasm. He brings excitement and drive with all that he works with both K9 and human, he is a valued member of the unit.

Kate S

Kate started her volunteering career with Surf Life Saving SA. Her relocation to Vic has been a great gain to SARDA. Kate has been a valued support person on deployment and continues on her SAR training journey with kelpie Renn. With her love of working breeds Kate is enjoying increasing her K9 handling skills in this field, we look forward to supporting her journey.

Liz

Liz is a Veterinary Nurse of more than 10 years with additional experience in many animal related fields! She joined SARDA in 2024 and whilst she dreams of her very own Human Remains Detection dog, until then she enthusiastically supports any other way she can!

Mel

Mel is a dog trainer by trade and loves spending her time lending a hand a SARDA. Mel is currently training her pup Bear to join the K9 team.