Be Chill.
Chilli Dog.
2025 saw the introduction of a new Mt Buller Ski Patrol trainee, Chilli.
Although there is a long history of canine helpers in Ski Patrol around the world, particularly as avalanche dogs, this is a first to ‘put on the red jacket’ for Mount Buller. Chilli’s handlers (and family!), Tess and Campbell are two experienced ski patrollers with a long Buller history between them.
Some Chilli Dog Facts:
She is a Nova Scotian Duck Tolling retriever, a great pick for a Buller due to their water-repellant double coat, strong work drive as well as getting on well with children.
2026 will see Chilli return in her training with Tess and Campbell as a therapy dog both for public and staff (including patrollers!)
In the off season, Chilli loves stand up paddle boarding, heading out on the boat and long walks on the beach.
It’s very hard to wait, as she is gorgeous, but please ask Tess or Campbell before approaching Chilli as she is very young and still in training.
The female ‘Tollers’ are also quite compact which is a great help for riding chairlifts, skidoo’s and her handler’s shoulders!
Chilli and Tess have graduated Animal Assisted Therapy Training with Therapy Dogs Australia, showing Chilli’s obedience and temperament suitability.