While Scott Smith dedicates his working hours to the formidable task of caring for critically endangered southern black rhinos at Dubbo’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo, his evenings offer a stark contrast. After a demanding day with animals that can weigh up to 1,300 kilograms and possess a “charge now, think later” mentality, he swaps the wild for the meticulously trained world of sheepdogs. For Smith, the intellectual engagement and predictable responses of his champion sheepdogs are a welcome change from the sheer power and unpredictability of rhinos.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a vital sanctuary for eight southern black rhinos, a species teetering on the brink of extinction. These impressive creatures can reach lengths of 3.5 metres and, astonishingly, can gallop at speeds of up to 55km/h, a pace comparable to that of a border collie. Despite this impressive speed, Smith attests that the thrill of a 17kg dog hurtling towards him is significantly less daunting than facing a charging rhinoceros.
Smith’s passion for sheepdog training extends beyond a hobby; it’s a competitive pursuit. For two consecutive years, he and his canine partners dominated the top category at the National Sheep Dog Trials, an annual event held in Hall, ACT. While this year saw them relinquish their championship title, they still secured an impressive second and sixth place in the open category. Furthermore, their newcomer, a two-year-old collie named Ace, clinched fourth place in the maiden category, showcasing promising talent for the future.
The Solace of “Just You and Your Dog”
For Scott Smith, the intricate dance of sheepdog trialling serves as the ultimate antidote to the stresses of his day job. “I just love it, in that it’s my time away,” he explains, highlighting the therapeutic nature of the sport. His wife, Jo, affectionately refers to his dedication to training and competing with their seven border collies as “farmers’ golf,” a testament to the enjoyable yet strategic nature of the activity.
The National Sheep Dog Trials demand a high level of skill and coordination. Competitors have a strict 15-minute window to guide their dogs through a challenging course. Smith, a seasoned trialler with 25 years of experience, views the sport as a journey of continuous learning. “It’s a long apprenticeship,” he muses, emphasizing that success isn’t solely about physical prowess. “I like the fact that you don’t have to be the strongest, you don’t have to be the fastest. You can be a 10-year-old or 80-year-old, as long as you can walk, you can do it. It’s just you and your dog.”
Sarah Sydrych, president of the National Sheep Dog Trial Championship, echoes this sentiment. She describes the event as a celebration of rural heritage, a cornerstone of community life, and a profound honouring of the indispensable working dog. “Our dogs are just so important out there on our farms, and there’s nothing better than getting out there with your dog and doing the best you can to bring these three sheep around a course,” Sydrych states.
Challenging the Norm and Embracing Diversity
The appeal of sheepdog trialling extends to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Karin Klaus, originally from Switzerland, discovered her passion for the sport after relocating to a farm near Canberra with her partner. “Some people meditate, other people trial dogs,” she observes, illustrating the sport’s capacity to provide a unique form of mindful engagement.
The recent trials in the ACT were a vibrant spectacle, attracting both human and canine enthusiasts. Rows of focused border collies, awaiting their turn, watched intently as their counterparts navigated the course. Among the diverse canine competitors was Jade, a kelpie, who competed alongside her owner, Belinda Carter. While border collies often dominate the competition landscape, Carter highlights the distinct flair that kelpies bring. “The kelpies are just probably a little bit too independent thinking a lot of people say. They make up their own mind,” she notes. Carter, however, values Jade’s autonomy, which translates to less constant direction.
Cultivating the Next Generation of Handlers
Organisers of the National Sheep Dog Trials are committed to ensuring the sport’s longevity and appeal to a new generation. Initiatives such as a scholarship program for individuals under 30 and handling experience opportunities for high school students are in place to foster future talent. Successful scholarship recipients receive comprehensive support, including dog supplies, mentorship, transportation, and financial assistance.
“We believe in fostering the next generation of handlers and trainers, ensuring the continued relevance and excellence of working dogs in modern agriculture and society,” the National Sheep Dog Trial Association declared on its website.
Scott Smith also believes that the widespread success of the ABC program Muster Dogs will play a significant role in revitalising interest in the sport. He anticipates that the show will attract prospective competitors from a broader spectrum of society. “Muster Dogs has had a very good influence on the sport,” Smith commented. “It’s brought a lot of awareness to the importance of working dogs on the farms these days. Like how valuable they are, not only for stock work, but for mental wellbeing.”
