Mahelu Labrador Retrievers

Our love of dogs began many years ago in 1965, when my father bred and exhibited Pembroke Welsh Corgis. That early introduction to the dog world created a lifelong passion which eventually led Brett and I to our forever breed — the Labrador Retriever.

Our Labrador journey officially began in 1994 in Rockhampton, Queensland, where we travelled extensively throughout Central, North and Far North Queensland attending shows, events and canine activities. Over the years we later moved to Townsville and now proudly call Weipa, in Far North Queensland, home.

The name “Mahelu” is proudly derived from the first two initials of our three children — Matthew, Henry and Luke. Family has always been at the heart of everything we do, and our Labradors have always been an important part of that family life. We are registered members of Dogs Queensland, the Labrador Retriever Club of Queensland, and the Ingham Kennel and Obedience Club.

For more than 30 years, Labrador Retrievers have played a significant role in our lives. While we have enjoyed success in Conformation Showing, our involvement with dogs has extended beyond the show ring to include Obedience, Agility and Endurance Tests. In 2025 we commenced competing in Scent Work trials and look forward to participating in additional canine sports in the future.

At Mahelu Labrador Retrievers, we are passionate about preserving the true Labrador Retriever — focusing on quality, soundness, breed type, temperament, intelligence and the Labrador’s renowned willingness to please.

Design • Function • Loyalty

These three words reflect what we strive for in every dog we breed and own.

Above all else, our Labradors are beloved family companions. They share our home, our camping adventures, our holidays and our everyday lives. We believe Labradors should possess not only beauty and soundness, but also the stable, affectionate temperament that has made the breed one of the world’s most loved companions.

We are a small, dedicated kennel and strongly believe in “Quality, Not Quantity.” We breed selectively and responsibly, primarily to continue our own bloodlines and welcome each new generation into our family. Every litter is thoughtfully planned with health, temperament and longevity at the forefront, ensuring each puppy is given the very best start in life.

All breeding dogs at Mahelu undergo comprehensive health testing prior to being considered for our breeding program, including DNA profiling, hip and elbow scoring.

Over the years, we have proudly guided many Labradors to their Australian Championship titles and Sport Titles — both our own dogs and those loved and campaigned by others. Most importantly, our Labradors remain cherished members of our family and the families who welcome them into their homes.