Local sheepdog trainers excited for national titles in Geelong

Ms Young and dog Lyre. Photo: Vinnie Van Oorschot

THE nation’s most elite sheepdogs will soon be on display in Geelong, with the region preparing to welcome the Hypro Supreme Australian Sheepdog Championships to the city for the first time.

The national championships, which rotates between states each year, was most recently held in Victoria in 2017 in Seymour.

This year’s championships run at the Geelong Showgrounds from September 7 to September 15, showcasing dogs across three categories: Novice, Open and Supreme.

Teesdale sheepdog trainer Susan Young with her three Border Collies (L-R) Lyre, Marley and Bo. Photos: VINNIE VAN OORSCHOT

Among the trainers competing is Teesdale resident Susan Young, who owns three working border collies, two of which will compete in the Novice section and one in the Open section.

Ms Young said trainers based near Geelong were ecstatic the championships will take place in Victoria’s largest regional city.

“Most people go to the supreme champs no matter what state it’s in, me included – I’ve been to championships in South Australia, Queensland and Tasmania; everyone just loves it,” she said.

“It’s the biggest event of the year, it’s certainly the biggest highlight for everyone, everyone just gets really excited for it.”

More than 400 dogs are expected to participate in the championships across the three categories.

Susan Young with four-year-old border collie Lyre.

A major drawcard for trainers and spectators is the aggregate tally-up of Australian and New Zealand trainers, which will decide the recipient nation of this year’s Wayleggo Cup (Trans-Tasman Test).

Ms Young said the two busiest days would be September 14 and September 15, where the winner of the Supreme category would be decided.

“On the Saturday, the best 20 dogs in Australia will be competing, and it is just extraordinary to watch,” Ms Young said.

“The sheepdog community is just extremely helpful as well; everybody seems to know everybody and it’s a great opportunity to learn new things as well.

“Everyone is extremely supportive of one another because at the end of the day, we’re all just trying to compete at our best; it’s awesome.”

Tickets to attend the championships can be found at events.humanitix.com/australian-supreme-sheepdog-championship