The pair feature in 60 Tails, a new book of 60 short stories launched on Monday which celebrates the 60th anniversary of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.

In the book, Ms Heskett describes Darcy as her "eyes and constant companion” and says she is able to navigate her way safely and confidently with him by her side.

Mr Darcy, as she affectionately calls him, has given her the independence to lead a very busy life after he easily learned the route to the bank, bus, hairdressers, post office and Country Women’s Association (CWA) in a very short period of time.

"He is already an honorary member of the CWA and is found most Thursdays and Saturdays curled up under the desk in the craft shop," Ms Heskett said.

“He allows me to walk upright and to use the little sight I have to orientate myself in my environment instead of only seeing a bit of the ground immediately in front of my cane.

“When he is in harness he is constantly watching the way ahead and also making allowance for any obstacles such as tree branches at head height. He helps me walk up and down steps, find doorways and refuses to cross a road or driveway even if I have told him to go if there is any danger from traffic."

Darcy is Ms Heskett’s second Guide Dog after her first dog, Evelyn, retired due to ill health. When the time came to meet Darcy and undertake a two-week intensive training program at the Guide Dogs Centre, Ms Heskett was a bit anxious but soon realised that she didn't need to be.

"Darcy himself went a long way towards making the experience relaxed and enjoyable as he was just so laid back and picked up everything expected of him with no problem at all," she said.

"From day one there has never been a cross growl between them. They play together, sleep together, and eat together. Darcy seems to know she has a problem and he is very gentle with her," she said.

60 Tails explains that Darcy is the second Guide Dog that the NSW Taxi Council has sponsored. Over the past 10 years, the council, drivers and networks have donated more than $63,500 to Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. The Council has also invested time educating drivers about the access rights of Guide Dogs and how drivers can assist passengers with vision impairment.

60 Tails, features many stories from other people with sight loss whose independence has been enhanced by having a Guide Dog and other mobility services, and celebrates those who have bred, raised and trained our dogs.

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Veterinary & Breeding Services Manager, Dr Caroline Moeser, said 60 Tails also pays tribute to the life-changing contribution made by the organisation’s supporters, donors, volunteers, staff and board members.

“60 Tails provides an inspiring reminder of just how much difference Guide Dogs can make to the lives of people who are blind or vision impaired,” she said.

“Being able to navigate their way around safely and independently means greater access to education, employment, and their community.”

She said it costs over $35,000 to breed, raise and train each Guide Dog. All Guide Dog NSW/ACT services are provided at no cost to clients.

“As we receive less than two per cent of our funding from the government, it is thanks to the generous support of the public that that we can continue to provide our services,” she said.

The book launch was held at Sydney Opera House on Monday, September 18. 

Visit www.guidedogs.com.au/60tails