Top Dog

“Duncan is our mate at the Echuca Primary School gate,” Echuca Primary community engagement and wellbeing officer Scott Trewhella said.

Duncan began his schooling in January this year after Scott and his wife Jo, who both work at 208, welcomed Duncan into their family.

The seven-month-old dachshund has taken over the school dog role from the Trewhella’s previous dog Rosie, who died in 2018 after spending about 15 years at 208 with students.

“Duncan was accelerated to Year 6 where he can usually be found ‘paw-fecting’ his reading and writing skills,” Scott said.

“He’s a significant friend to the 500-plus students, staff and community members at 208 and plays a key role in bringing comfort to disengaged or anxious students, companionship to his adoring friends in the playground and emotional support to anyone having a ‘bad day’.

“In particular, Duncan has been the link to transitioning a number of students back into the classroom following COVID-19 and remote learning; he really is a dose of happiness.”

As one of the dogs vying for the title of Top Dog in Echuca-Moama and district, Duncan is up against more than 60 of the best boys and girls from Tongala, Wyuna, Moulamein, Echuca, Moama and beyond.

“It’s Duncan’s immense loyalty, intelligence and handsome good looks add sparkle to our already merry days at Echuca Primary School,” Scott said.