FATHER OF THE RAAF
POLICE DOG HANDLER MUSTERING
UNOFFICIAL PAGEAlthough dogs were used to some extent for security purposes within the RAAF from 1943,
Bill Perrett is the man credited with the formation and development of the
Royal Australian Air Force Police Dog Handler Mustering.
It was largely through his efforts that the first man/dog courses were conducted.
Bill Perrett.Bill started his RAAF career after spending time in Sydney as a civilian. He arrived in Sydney as a telegraphist aboard a British Navy Ship at the end of W.W.II. In the early 1950's Bill was placed in charge of looking after the dogs used for the security of RAAF warehouses. Bill's first training task was to teach the dogs to use a sand box rather then foul the warehouse floors.
From this humble start Bill fought for recognition and acceptance of man/dog teams as an effective security measure. He was assigned the responsibility of developing the guidelines and curriculum for a handler/dog course.
For a breakdown of dates and events see:
History of RAAF Police Dogs.
As the mustering grew, the nickname "Doggie" became synonymous with all personnel who became members. This term was, and still is accepted proudly by members past and present.
Bill became a Commissioned RAAF Police Officer in the mid 1960's and was appointed the first Officer in charge of the new Police Dog Training Centre at No7 Stores Depot, Toowoomba, Queensland.
Bill was not only recognized as 'Father Of The Doggie Mustering" but in RAAF Doggie circles was considered to have a'GOD'like persona.
Bill Perrett retired from the RAAF in 1977 as a Squadron Leader and continued his association with the canine world by running a Dog Training and Boarding Kennel Complex in Queensland.
Bill is now retired and still living in Queensland.
Photo taken at the Opening of the Doggie Museum. 
Bill Perrett is second from left wearing an attack training arm protector.
The three people sitting with Bill were members of the first Police Dog Handler Course.
Left: Bruce Elsley. Former Leading Aircraftsman.
Centre: Don (Blue) Byrnes. Former Warrant Officer.
Right: Kev Saunders. Former Warrant Officer.
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Research and Construction of these pages by: Page last reviewd 19 May 2006
RAAF Police Dog Handler Warrant Officer Glenn J Andrews (retired).
