Moving the earth for Dusty

A little Labrador puppy called Dusty is on the mind of Canungra based business man, Mark Rankin.

Each time his family company, Lyncor Mining Group, hires heavy earth moving equipment to construct dams, haulage roads and undertake bulk earth works, a portion of the hire fee will be donated to Vision Australia’s Seeing Eye Dogs division to pay for Dusty’s training.

At just 13 weeks old, Dusty, who is named in memory of Mr Rankin’s brother, has already begun learning how to become a Seeing Eye Dog.

For the next 12 to 18 months he will live with volunteer puppy carer, Robbi O’Keefe learning basic obedience such as how to sit, eat and toilet on command. After this he will be assessed before he commences his formal training to graduate as a fully-fledged Seeing Eye Dog.

According to Lyncor, CEO, Stephen Pitt the company hopes to donate over $14,000 dollars per year, to cover the costs. “Each time our 63 tonne scrappers are hired, a portion of the hire fee will go straight to Vision Australia’s Seeing Eye Dog division to help pay for Dusty’s training,” said Mr Pitt.

The money will go towards, breeding, kennel and vet costs as well as matching and training a person who is blind with their new dog. It also covers travel and accommodation and a graduation kit complete with harness and leads.

“Lyncor is proud to be involved. We plan to paint the two scrapper’s bright purple (Vision Australia’s corporate colour) to show our ongoing involvement,” Mr Pitt said.

“It costs around $30,000 to breed, train and match a Seeing Eye Dog with someone who is blind or has low vision,” said Leigh Garwood, General Manager Seeing Eye Dogs and Orientation and Mobility, Vision Australia.

“Vision Australia is very grateful for the support of Lyncor Mining Group. It makes a big difference to our clients, helping them to regain their confidence and independence through these special dogs,” he added.