The Man Behind the Dogs

With nearly 35 years of service across the Northern Territory and New South Wales, Roger Mayer APM has spent a significant portion of his career in the elite Dog Unit. His journey is defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep understanding of the unpredictable nature of high-risk operations.

Working alongside highly trained police dogs requires a level of trust and precision that is rarely seen in the public eye. Roger takes you behind the scenes of a world most people never see, exploring the intense, confronting, and sometimes unexpectedly human side of the job.

From the high-stakes reality of urban search and rescue to the remote challenges of the outback, Roger’s stories are a gripping collection of real-life moments that don’t make the headlines. They are the raw, authentic experiences that define him.

Career Highlights

NT Police Force

Roger Mayer, N.S.W. Roger joined N.T. Police October 1978 and for a period was stationed at Nhulunbuy.

From the Northern Territory Retired Police Newletter (2012): "Whilst stationed at Nhulunbuy Roger gained knowledge of ‘Gumatj’ an East Arnhem language, when seeking information regarding this, a Gumatj person named Jeanie Guruwiwi beamed with enjoyment not having heard of Roger since he left Nhulunbuy. She informed me that Roger had been ‘adopted’ by her grandfather ‘Gotju” and uncle ‘Mandawuy’ both elders
of the Yunupingu family."

NSW Police Force

Roger resigned from the NT Police Force in September 1981 and joined NSW Police Force. He was sworn in January 1982. Worked General Duties and Plain Clothes for 7 years. Commenced Dog Squad 1988 until retirement in July 2013. In 2002 he was promoted to Sergeant Supervisor – State Protection Group Dog Unit.

Public Service Recognition

In the 2012 Queens Birthday honours list Roger was awarded the Australian Police Medal (APM). The Australian Police Medal (APM) is a highly prestigious national honor awarded to sworn members of Australian police forces in recognition of distinguished and outstanding service.

Martial Artist

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Brown Belt, 2025
Judo Black Belt, 2019
Budokai Sword, 2007
Tang Soo Do Black Belt, 1981

Author & Storyteller

Translating years of frontline experience into gripping narratives that expose the intense, confronting, and unexpectedly human side of the job.