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Enjoy
competition with a difference at this year's Flinders
Challenge Sheepdog Trials.
This
action-packed event is expected to draw a high calibre of
working dogs and handlers from South Australia, Victoria and
New South Wales to the Jamestown showgrounds.
Two
categories will take place this weekend from August 18 to 20
in what is now acknowledged as the biggest working dog trial
in South Australia. "One of the things the Flinders
Challenge demands is excellence in stock handling and dog
handling," said organiser Lyn Page.
The
first category is the yard dog trial, a test of skill
involving yards and obstacles similar to those involved in
bringing sheep into the shearing shed.
And
this trial introduces an added challenge for handlers.
"It
is all done without touching the dog or sheep and handlers are
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not
allowed to swear," Mrs Page said.
The
action intensifies in the utility trial with competitors
vying for the title of Best All Round Dog in Paddocks
and Yards.
Dogs
need to tackle two or three obstacles in the paddock before
completing the yard component.
This
tests skills in being able to read stock.
"It
is quite exciting to watch and people are usually on the edge
of their seats," Mrs Page said.
Young
people are the backbone of the event with students from
Jamestown Community School involved in organising it.
Team
leaders Ben Dickenson and Kylie.Zanboekel direct fellow
students in organising the event and installing the yards.
The
students will be responsible for the sheep and yards, timekeeping
and scoring.
Event
director Ben Page introduced
this concept about four
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years
ago and it gives the students a chance to develop essential
skills.
It
is fantastic for spectators who can enjoy a trial atmosphere
without the distractions of rides, loud music and other show
features.
"It
is fantastic to watch some of those highly- skilled handlers
and dogs outwitting and outsmarting sheep," Mrs Page
said.
Competitors
are easily recognisable in brightly colored bibs and a
running commentary helps spectators understand the action
unfolding.
Event
organisers and trialers will be available to answer any
questions people may have about the event or training working
dogs.
This
is particularly useful for young people hoping to gain tips on
trials.
The
Flinders Challenge Sheepdog Trials start at 7.30am each day
with action continuing throughout the three days.
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