The challenge comprised three events: Yard dogs guiding sheep through courses; cattle testing each dog’s mettle in a small paddock; and open-field trials where dogs showcased their skills in gathering and herding sheep through three distinct obstacles.
All dogs work in the three components to determine the natural ability of all-round utility stock dogs.
Burgess Rural owner Jan Evans hosted the event and supplied both sheep and cattle.
A great team of volunteers, along with the Glenaroua local fire brigade, ensured that procedures ran smoothly.
The event fostered a warm community atmosphere, with hearty breakfasts, morning teas and traditional Aussie barbecue lunches served throughout the day.
Each day concluded with an exciting awards ceremony, where top-performing handlers and their skilled dogs were honoured with prestigious sashes, trophies and a substantial total prize pool of $4000.
Many local businesses and families, including Robert Hiscock, Joeycan (Aust) P/L, Balmoral Park Angus, Nutrien, Dindi Ag (with ‘True Blue’), Annette Hickey of Stockfeed, Elders, Andrew Newell, Taurus Meats and Tom Oliver all gave generous support to the event, as well as an anonymous donation.
Craig Ogier from Gisborne and his dog ‘Roustabout Itchy’ took out the major event on Sunday, while Jeremy Lim from Holbrook, NSW, and his dog ‘Homebrook Cessna’ won on Saturday.
The two stockmanship awards went to Tim Cavill from Alexandra and Craig Ogier.
Darren McAinch from Yanakie judged the paddock sections and local judge Brian Leahy from the Highlands judged the yard (sheep) sections throughout.
Ian Bates from Markwood and Rod Cavanagh from Yea judged the cattle section on each respective day.
The Australian Utility Stock Dog Society organisers expressed great satisfaction with the event’s success and enthusiasm for future stock dog challenges, promising more exciting competitions for working dog enthusiasts across the country.
Further information and full results can be found on the AUSDS Facebook page and on the society’s website, ausds.org
