Working dogs to be put on show

HANDLERS and their dogs will be put to the test next weekend as the Deans Marsh Dog Trials return to the town’s recreation reserve for 2025.

Running from January 17 to January 19, the three-day competition requires the dogs to complete several obstacles with three sheep, before getting them in the pen and manoeuvring them in a calm manner.

Organised by Mark Fagan and Jill Stewart, the event has been running for the past 14 years, attracting entrants from across Victoria along with New South Wales and South Australia.

“Triallers love it, they say they really love our trial because it is such a beautiful atmosphere at Deans Marsh and it’s a really great community event,” Ms Stewart said.

There are three categories available to entrants, novice, opener and improver, with trials running on all three days of the event.

 

Ms Stewart said one of the unique things about it is the skills the dogs have in manoeuvring sheep.

“People don’t get to see that very often, it’s not a common thing and I think it’s great for people to see the skills the dogs have and the inherent natural skills they have for moving stock.

“And also the skill of the trialler to train that dog to be able to do that to such a high standard, because farmwork is not to the high complexity and degree you have on a dog trial.”

The Friday night will also include a learner’s event, people who would like to have a go can take their dogs along and speak to an experienced handler and walk around the course with their dog.

“It’s a great opportunity for people that are learning and wanting to get some really skilled advice,” Ms Stewart said.

“We’re going to have some really top triallers here, we’ve got people that have been representing Australia against New Zealand and also in Supreme Championships, and they love imparting their knowledge.”

Those wanting to participate in the learner’s event must contact event organisers beforehand and dogs are required to have seen sheep before

The market will also return to this year’s event, taking place on January 19, with plenty of stalls and food offerings available.

For more information, head to the Deans Marsh Dog Trials Facebook page.