FIRE and Rescue NSW’s Ignitable Liquid Detection Dog, Gandalf, has been awarded Canine Hero of the Year in the Service Dog category at the 2025 Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Sydney Royal Easter Show.

The prestigious title recognises Gandalf’s extraordinary seven-year career as an Ignitable Liquid Detection Dog, and his outstanding contribution to fire investigation and public safety across the state.

Since 2018, Gandalf has worked alongside his handler, FRNSW Canine Team Leader Tim Garrett, within the Fire Investigation and Research Unit, helping to detect accelerants and provide vital evidence in hundreds of fire investigations, including high-profile arson and homicide cases.

Gandalf not only enhances the accuracy of fire investigations but also significantly improves the safety of his colleagues.

By identifying the presence of ignitable liquids quickly and precisely, he reduces the amount of time that fire investigators are exposed to high-risk environments.

Gandalf is a team player, also mentoring the next generation of ignitable liquid detection dogs.

He has embraced his new role as a teacher to Siren, the newest FRNSW detection dog, demonstrating patience and tolerance while introducing him to the world of fire investigation.

It is anticipated Gandalf will retire at the end of 2025 after an exceptional career in frontline fire investigation.

Gandalf and handler Tim Garrett at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

FRNSW Canine Team Leader Tim Garrett said the award is a fitting tribute to the work Gandalf has done for the team and the community.

“Gandalf has an incredible ability to work through chaotic, post-fire environments and identify the smallest traces of ignitable liquids,” Mr Garrett said.

“His precision helps narrow the focus of our investigations quickly and safely, allowing us to collect critical evidence and spend less time in hazardous environments.

“He’s been incredibly tolerant and patient with his new excitable sidekick, Siren. He’s passing the baton in the best possible way.

“Gandalf is a wise old dog now, but he still acts like a puppy when he thinks there’s something to chew. Every morning, he checks his transport cage for anything I’ve accidentally left behind—because if it’s within reach, he’ll destroy it. That cheeky side never left.”