2021 National kelpie field trail

2021 National

kelpie field trial

Article by Lauren Vest | Photography by Jan McIntyre

The 2021 National Kelpie Field Trial was held in April at Allora, Queensland, the week before the National Yard and Cattle Trial at Armidale. Where possible the national trials are held close together to make it easier for interstate competitors to attend in one trip.

The Working Kelpie Council (WKC) started the National Kelpie Field Trial Championships over 50 years ago, with the 2021 trial the 51st held. The first trial was held at the Golf Club at Mildura. It is now held in a different state each year to allow competitors from all over the country a chance to compete at the premier trial for Kelpies.

The WKC thanks the hosting committee for the planning and hard work that resulted in a most enjoyable trial. There were over 70 entries. This number was down compared to the 2019 trial, and it is believed that Covid-19 was the main contributor for the lower number of entries. The Merino sheep that were generously provided were challenging and tested the dogs, but responded kindly, particularly at the obstacles if handled calmly and allowed to settle. The open championship was won by Bree Cudmore working Marista Zoe – The first woman to win the NKFT and one of the youngest as well, at only 26 years of age. The novice event was won by Gary White, working the aptly named Whites Lucky. Congratulations to all concerned on a great trial.

SPECIAL AWARDS

National Kelpie Council Shield (Winner) Bree Cudmore - Marista Zoe

CJ Butler Memorial Trophy (Highest individual score, one run) - Bree Cudmore - Marista Zoe

Coleman Noakes Perpetual Trophy (Highest scoring novice) - Gary White – Whites Billy-Boy

Bullenbong Trophy (Highest scoring novice dog worked by a novice handler) No Eligible Award

Scoriochre Trophy (Most effective yard performance) Gary White - Whites Chrissie

Prendergast Trophy (Breeder of winner) Marista - Matthew Sherwood

Frank Scanlon Perpetual Trophy (Best cast, lift, and draw) Adam Miller - Elwanvale Sunny

Capree Stud Perpetual Trophy (Fastest time) Adam James - Jindi Chuck (13.53)

Bradley Sister’s Trophy (Best type Kelpie) Elwanvale Sunny - Adam Miller

Les Tarrant Trophy (Best outside work in the opinion of the judge) - Bree Cudmore - Marista Zoe

Lorna Browning Trophy (The lady who worked the highest scoring individual dog) Bree Cudmore - Marista Zoe

Novice final

NKFTC Final