Ever wanted to know what dog trials were about or what exactly the dog and sheep are doing? If so, then this opportunity will interest you.
The Waimea and Tapawera dog trial clubs are hosting a family afternoon with a behind the scenes demonstration including commentary so you know what is going on.
Sheep Dog Trialling is an amazing sport and fun to watch when you understand what is expected of the dogs and the sheep involved.
Dog trials showcase the wonderful and respectful relationship between human and dog. Dog trials are outdoor competitions that are designed to spotlight the hunting and working instincts in New Zealand sheep dog and we have 68 dog trial clubs in the South Island.
The Waimea Dog Trial Club has been operating for over a century in the area and is a social group. The club runs two main trials that offer competition opportunities for those interested. The club has trial grounds and a club room, located in Higgins Road, Wakefield, and has some new faces that have recently joined.
September 2022 saw the election of a new president for the club, Dorje Strang.
Dorje is passionate about dog trials and says it’s neat to see the club growing.
“We have great people involved and we are focusing more on the social side to keep people interested and let everyone have a go.”
Dorje said that members enjoy improving their dog’s confidence and ability as well as their own.
The dogs aren’t just for show either, all the dogs involved in the Waimea Dog Trial club are working farm dogs that live on local farms and use their learnt skills to assist in daily farm operations.
For those with a competitive streak the club trial season usually begins in January each year and ends in May. There are usually 4 events at each trial: the Long Head, the Short Head and Yard, the Zig-Zag Huntaway and the Straight Huntaway events. Heading dogs (silent working dogs, evolved in NZ from border collies) compete in the heading events; and huntaways (evolved in NZ from border collies and various barking sheep dog breeds) compete in the huntaway events.
Waimea Dog Trials welcomes visitors or anyone wanting to become involved.
“It’s great to be part of a club,” Dorje explains. “There are great people in our club, with tons of experience at this, who are always eager to help others who want to get into it.”
Children really enjoy watching dogs and sheep work together so bring the family and enjoy afternoon tea and entertainment with us all. Our local Fire and Emergency team will be there as well with fire prevention and safety information.
Sunday, 19 February 3pm at the A&P Showgrounds. Gold coin donation. Family-friendly. Free afternoon tea. Registration essential, text your full name and the number of people coming to 02041842546. Cancelled if wet, see their Facebook page on the day ‘Waimea/Tapawera Dog Trial Clubs’.
