Brighten Your Day

Dogs On A Bus Are Creating Dream Jobs For People With Disabilities

September 9, 2025

Every morning in Boonah, Queensland, a minibus filled with eager dogs heads to IronBark DogPark.

To the pups, it’s a playground paradise. But behind the scenes, something even more special is happening: lives are being changed.

@ironbarkdogpark

For more than a decade, Jo Mcvilly, the trainer who runs IronBark, has built her business around more than just dogs. She has made it her mission to provide meaningful work for young people living with disabilities or coming from at-risk backgrounds.

"We're creating a space where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and build a future in animal care," Jo explained to ABC News.

The work is opening doors to careers, friendships, and confidence for people who may have struggled to find opportunities elsewhere. Staff member Sage Conway-Keogh, who is hearing-impaired, says the role has been nothing short of life-changing.

"I've always loved animals, and now I get to work with them every day," Sage said. "It's my dream job."

The dogs may be the stars of the daycare—featured in TikTok clips that have been watched by millions—but Jo’s real pride is in what the program is doing for people.

In her words, the benefits go both ways.

"My aim obviously with the dogs is to find their happy place, but the result is, it allows the humans to find their happy place as well."

@ironbarkdogpark