New enthusiasm and vigour saw the two day event praised by all competitors and spectators alike after it ran at Ellerston earlier this month. 

More than 140 entries were seen across the four events including 33 maiden runs, 37 novice runs, 56 open runs and 16 local bush dog competitors. 

The Local Bush Dog Trial was a new event on the program, designed to cater for local competitors within 100 kilometres of the grounds who haven’t won a cattle dog trial in the past four years. 

Fred Cook and Roy were the winners after a fantastic display of guiding the six head of cattle through the course. 

Organiser Murray Wilkinson said the local trial was a great social aspect of the weekend with some handy dogs and scores being seen. 

“Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and had a good experience of their first attempt at a trial,” he said. 

Another new addition to the program was the Champion of Champions stakes, which was similar to Supreme of the Show, this was also won by Fred Cook and Roy. 

Other highlights were the Clarke Family dog high jump, won by local Jim Marshall and his dog Reg.

Thanks to the support of many valuable sponsors, each winner received a handmade brass engraved leather collar made by local Bob Garratt, along with prize money and a bag of dog food.

Mr Wilkinson said following the success of the trials they are hoping for it to become an annual event. 

“After lots of positive feedback from competitors and spectators regarding the excellent cattle, camping facilities, grounds and catering, we’re hopeful to run it again next year,” he said.

“A big thanks goes to all the sponsors and judges Fred Cook, Ryan Usmar and Robert Johnston, as well as Ellerston Public School P and C Association who did a marvellous job catering all              weekend with lots of yummy food.

“We’d also like to thank Ellerston Pty Ltd and Rob Teague and Scott Mitchell for allowing the use of the cattle and for all those who helped over the weekend.”

Results: Maiden – 1st – Kim Parish with Copper, 2nd – Robert Johnston with Lilly, 3rd – Murray Wilkinson with Fancy, 4th – Martin Schaeffer with Sunday, 5th – Chris Gehrig with Woody.

Novice - 1st – Kim Parish with Copper, Equal 2nd and 3rd – Chris Gehrig with Woody and Robert Johnston with Nelly, 4th – Jennifer Burrell with Pose, 5th – Ryan Usmar with Slim.

Open - 1st – Robert Johnston with Robin, 2nd – Fred Cook with Roy, 3rd – Robert Johnston with Pattie, 4th – Jennifer Burrell with Reef, 5th – Robert Johnston with Livi.

Local - 1st – Fred Cook with Roy, 2nd – Rory Murphy with Ben, 3rd – Dave Grant with Boots, 4th – Mike Clark with Sarge, 5th – Rob Teague with Slug.