Dog trials set up for Deans Marsh return

SHEEP dogs from across the nation will show off their skills during the 13th annual Dean Marsh Sheep Dog Trails.

The three-day event, which starts today and ends Sunday, January 22, at Deans Marsh Recreation Reserve, is expected to attract a crowd of 400 people.

Event co-founders and organisers Mark Fagan and Jill Stewart, who both have decades of experience training and caring for herding breeds of dogs, are proud to host the town’s annual trials.

Mr Fagan has competed and travelled across Victoria competing in dozens dog trials, but said the atmosphere at the competition in Deans Marsh is unique.

“The amount of support we get from the town and the Deans Marsh Cricket Club is amazing,” Mr Fagan said.

“We have not only got a beautiful arena at our disposal that is green with Cypress Hedges all the way around the oval for shelter, but in the summer with the Great Ocean Road just 25 minutes away, we get huge crowds.

“That really sets it apart from other Victorian trials and couple that with the fact that dog traillers from all over the country want to compete here, those who attend are getting to watch the best dogs on offer in Australia.”

The trails provide opportunities for emerging trainers as well competitors taking part in the novice event today.

Learner participants then partner with an experienced dog trainer to walk the course and mentor them during their first runs.

Top novice participants join the Improvers cohort on Saturday with the Open qualifiers also commencing their trials.

Sunday’s event will then crown the winners in the two categories following the finals.

Ms Stewart said she only hears good feedback from traillers each year, and said many Deans Marsh residents make a point of attending the event every year.

“People come from a long way to watch. Each year I walk around and ask people how they found out about the event, and I’m amazed at where they come from,” she said.

“It’s a different atmosphere here and it’s a perfect reflection of the community we have here being a dog town.”

More than 300 dogs are expected to run over the three days.

Jimmy Dodge’s (Ballarat) dog “Cooper” and current Australian champion will be competing, along with John Tuddenham (Ballarat) and his dog “Michael” and Michael Deppler (Western Victoria), with his dog “Molly”, who recently won equal first top dog in Victoria. Pip Hudson (New South Wales) has also confirmed his attendance.

Trials commence from 8.00am to 8.00pm on Friday, 7.00am to 5.00pm on Saturday, and 7.00am to 5.00pm on Sunday.

For more information on the event, head to www.deansmarsh.org.au/deans-marsh-dog-trials-2023/