Canberra celebrates 80 years of National Sheep Dog Trials

Soft fur, wagging tails and wet noses are almost enough to draw attention to any event, however these canines also have jobs – they are the protectors and overseers of their sheep. The National Sheep Dog Trials celebrate their 80th year at Hall Showground on 13-19 March.

The trials test three creatures – sheep, dogs and humans – and their ability to work together to complete obstacles in a limited timeframe. The sport can be traced back 150 years with farmers competing against one another to be known as having the best dog around.

The first official championship event was held in 1943 at Manuka Oval to raise funds for the Legacy organisation during World War II. Starting off as a one-day event, it has grown into seven days of entertainment for all those in attendance.

The National Open Champion takes home a prize of $5,000, a portrait of the winning dog created by artist Linda Dening, a replica Duke of Gloucester sash, and a Greg Prince memorial watch. Other titles include the National Maiden Champion, the National Improver Champion, and Champion of Champions.

The sash is of great significance to the competition. It was awarded to the National Sheep Dog Trial Association by His Royal Highness, Prince Henry Duke of Gloucester, in 1945 when he was serving as the GovernorGeneral of Australia. Hand embroidered with the coat of arms of the Royal House of Windsor, the once royal purple velvet sash has faded to a soft brown with antique hues.

The original sash that was once awarded to winners has been preserved and replica sashes are now presented to competition winners, halved in size and reproduced in the original purple.

A touch quieter than your regular animal showcase, soft whistling can be heard as handlers instruct their dogs and sheep around the obstacles. Organisers are proud of the equal opportunity in the sport, with men, women, young and old, invited to participate. They even welcome mobility scooters into the pen.

Catch the action at the 80th National Sheep Dog Trial Championships, Hall Showgrounds, 13-19 March; nationalsheepdogtrials.org.au Full story online.

- Jessica Cordwell

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