THE EVENT…
THE Patchewollock Recreation Reserve was a hive of activity late last month when the community banded together to host their inaugural sheep dog trials.
Competitors were put through their paces as they navigated their way through the various courses, testing their agility and workmanship.
Organiser Gerald Bibby said the event was hailed a huge success, attracting 34 entrants and more than 250 spectators throughout the day.
The concept for the sheep dog trials was first mentioned over a few drinks at the local watering hole.
Mr Bibby said a number of locals had expressed their disappointment that sheep dog trials were no longer taking place at the Hopetoun Show.
Teaming up with Peter (Doughie) Robin, the duo began turning their vision into a reality.
“We had a couple of months to organise the event,” Mr Bibby said.
“We formed a small committee and began seeking sponsorship.”
The event drew competitors from South Australia, Ballarat and Manangatang.
Entrants competed in one of three categories – open, novice or beginners.
THE COMPETITOR…
JILLAROO Sarah Kranz couldn’t imagine a life without working alongside her sheep dogs Kiwi, Spook and Holly.
The private contractor spends most of her time on the road.
“I really enjoy my job,” she said.
“The best part is being able to work with animals…”
“Every day is different.
“The best part is being able to work with animals.”
Originally from Beulah, Sarah grew up on a farm and began her own Jillaroo contracting business a couple of years ago. She recently showcased her three dogs at the Patchewollock Sheep Dog Trials.
“This is only my second event,” she said, noting she competed at the Hopetoun Show a few years ago.
“I haven’t been disqualified,” she laughed.
She said it took a lot of patience and tolerance to train a dog.
“I do it for a living,” she said.
“Mine are trained out on the job.”
THE JUDGE…
Bill Graham has been judging sheep dog trials for the last five years.
While his judging mainly takes place in South Australia where he resides, he was proud to be a part of the inaugural Patchewollock event.
At the event, Mr Graham said he was looking for good stockmanship.
“It’s very satisfying seeing the young dogs come through…”
“I’m looking at the control the handler has over his dog,” he said.
“People that can read their stock make it a lot easier for their dog.”
Operating his farm on the South Australian/Victorian border, Mr Graham has also spent much of his time training dogs for other people.
“It’s very satisfying seeing the young dogs come through,” he said.
“Trialling them is a lot different to working them at home.
“This competition allows the average local farmer to have a go.”
For more great farming stories, read April’s North West Farmer, inside your copy of Wednesday’s Guardian (April 9).
