General News
2 September, 2025
‘Ace’ providing comfort
CAIRNS Airport’s newest team member has a top-notch job description – offer snuggles, wag your tail and roll over for a belly scratch.
Golden retriever Ace is the airport’s first therapy dog and he’s ready to lend a paw to passengers who may need a little extra comfort during their journey.
Ace will visit the airport once a month with his dedicated handler Linda Mair, director of the Canine Training School.
Ms Mair said Ace was trained to provide comfort in environments that could be stressful for some people.
“Ace and I regularly visit the Cairns Hospital, where we provide support and brighten people’s day. We also work with people in respite care and in early education settings,” she said.
“Airports can be overwhelming. Therapy dogs like Ace provide moments of joy and help to ease stress and anxiety for people of all ages. We are excited to be working with Cairns Airport to bring comfort to travellers.”
Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker said Ace was a valuable addition to the team.
“Creating a compassionate and inclusive airport environment is one of our top priorities,” he said.
“Ace’s monthly visits will also complement our hidden disability program, which provides discreet support for customers with ‘invisible’ conditions such as autism, dementia, anxiety, visual impairments, deafness or hard of hearing.”
