Turk comes up trumps at national championships

For Turk and Senior Constable Derek Orchard (of Tauranga), 12 months was all it took to be crowned the patrol dog champions of the year. Although their partnership is young, both dog and handler have gained years of patrol experience in the aim of keeping our communities safe. Their lifesaving skills were put to the test recently as 20 teams across the Police, Corrections, Customs, and Aviation Security competed to be top dog in their field. The duo emerged as the winners of the Frank Riley Cup, a true credit to their relationship and strength in agility, obedience, search and detection exercises throughout the championship. Turk's top prize was not only based on skills in patrol, but on natural ability and good character. However, the competition is not to be taken lightly. The annual championship provides insight into the important role dogs play in crime prevention nationwide. To date, 23 have been killed in the course of duty. Senior Constable Orchard and previous dog Ben were both attacked with a clawhammer in 2006 highlighting the potential dangers of the job. A total of 10 national patrol dog teams took on the challenge for the Frank Riley Cup, suitably named after the man who started the championship in 1956. Other championship frontrunners included Senior Constable William Birrell and Hawk (second place) and Constable Stuart Rota with his dog Link (third place). Senior Constable Orchard and Turk are a small part of the 21 dog sections and 110 dog patrol teams that the Police have nationwide, many of which are crucial on the frontline.