THE mornings were crisp at Manangatang as the Victorian Yard Utility Farm Dog Association championships got under way on September 1.
Running over three days at the Manangatang Recreation Reserve, starting at 7am, the 18 competitors, their dogs and 523 sheep were hard at work.
The VYUFDA has existed for more than 30 years and is not restricted to any one breed of dog.
This was the first time in the history of the event it was held in the north-west of the state.
Event organiser Noel Templeton said there were people from as far as South Australia and NSW.
“The competition is primarily paddock work,” Mr Templeton said.
“Contestants start with 100 points and the judges deduct points for when you make mistakes.
“The association and competitors were very complimentary of the event and even asked if I would run one next year.
“Unfortunately I don’t have time but I will run one in four years’ time when the event is due to return to the Mallee.
“Competitors said that they felt very welcomed by the community while visiting the area.”
Overall winners were Gary White with his dog Whites Pint for the championship dog and Whites Albert in the novice category, with Adam James in the open category with Myamba Moss.
