Sheep dogs impress all at Korumburra

THE pups were out in force over the weekend and Monday as the South Eastern Victorian Sheep Dog Trials got underway at Korumburra Showgrounds.

Over 300 spectators watched on as parking filled around the grounds with 35 competitors, 130 runs and between 80-90 dogs showing off their impressive skills.

One of 15 trials across Victoria, coordinators were incredibly pleased with the results and shouted their praises for their sponsors from the roof tops.

“We have amazing local sponsorship that we are incredibly grateful for,” Louise Rielly explained.

“We have been blown away with our sponsors and thank each of them.

“In addition to our incredible sponsors, Max Morrison of Thorpdale provided 350 sheep each day for the trials and Korumburra A&P Society ladies have done all the meals.”

Celebrating 65 years of the Korumburra trials, Louise was also incredibly proud of the numerous volunteers and helpers who dedicate their time to pitching in and helping make the event a success.

“Colin, Heather and Irene have been helping time keep. Colin runs trials in Seymour and comes down to help us out.

“The Yardie’s are there 7am to 8pm with our youngest Yardie 17-year-old Stirling. Daryl and Don McNaughton are handing it down the line thrugh Daryl’s son Ricky and grandchildren.

“It’s a close-knit family – very social. 

“We also have amazing locals who jump in to help out, and visitors who come down in advance to help set up.”

With 15 minutes to complete the course, the handler coordinates the dog to round up the sheep from the other side of the grounds before taking them back up the course and then through a series of obstacles including the gap, race, up the bridge and finally into the pen.

Working off a Supreme Course, Ed explained the format.

“The sheep must get into the pen with the pen closed to progress into the finals.”

Whether a dog gives up or succeeds veteran Ned (a New Zealand Heading Dog) heads out and rounds the sheep back to the waiting yard for Ed and the Yard team.

And whilst most are veterans of the sport competing (and sometimes judging) in their 30 years plus participation, the sport is definitely open to new members, with many younger members and women recently joining.

Chris Davis of Wonthaggi is one such participant having taken part seriously since 2016.

“I have five working dogs and two retired dogs,” Chris explained.

“Before taking it seriously I participated in about one trial a year.”