Trans Tasman Sheepdog Trial - What's it all about?
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The Trans Tasman Sheepdog Trial was established to provide a level playing field for competition between Australia and New Zealand, a combination of Australian and New Zealand rules, with the aim that the best in Australia and the best in New Zealand can compete annually. The course is run with three fresh sheep for each competitor. Four obstacles must be negotiated and the course completed in 15 minutes. Expert stock handling, a well-educated dog and good knowledge of the course and rules is required to successfully complete the course. Competitors start with 100 points which are deducted throughout the competition for imperfect work.
For more information on the trial course, see our course map |
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How the Trans Tasman Sheepdog Trial works...
For a handy, printable version of the course map and description, click here.
The Trans Tasman Sheepdog Trial is a competition which involves handler, dog, 3 sheep and 4 obstacles. Australian and New Zealand rules are incorporated into a course, designed to create a level playing field for both countries to compete together annually. The Trans Tasman Sheepdog Trial here at Bungendore is the only other Trans Tasman Trial held in NSW apart from the Selection Trial, which is the official trial held to decide who will represent NSW.
- Handler must stand and wait at Casting Peg with dog stopped, waiting for the bell
- 3 Sheep are Let Out at the opposite end of the field, and the Judge will ring the bell.
- Dog is Cast and must go out and around behind the sheep, then deliver them as directly as possible to the handler (Lift and Draw). The Handler cannot move from the Casting Peg until the sheep have been delivered on the left hand side of the handler
- Handler walks towards the Gap maintaining a constant pace while the dog brings the sheep. Sheep are put through the Gap, and the Handler must then follow.
- Handler proceeds to the Maltese Cross, with dog and Handler driving the sheep. The Handler may assist the dog, but must remain behind the sheep
- At the Maltese Cross, the sheep enter and exit from the direction of the Gap, then enter and exit through the other arm, moving in the direction of the Bridge
- Handler and dog move the sheep to the Bridge, putting the sheep over the Bridge with the Handler able to assist the dog.
- Handler, sheep and dog proceed to the Pen. Sheep are directed into the Pen, and the gate closed to complete the Trial
