Delrio Gem takes out Trans-Tasman Sheepdog Trial

With a number of sheepdog trials cancelled this year due to the drought and low sheep numbers, competitors were keen to show spectators what the sport was all about.

"The trial gives farmers an opportunity to get together and support each other," Bungendore & District Sheepdog Club president Sarah Sydrych said.

"Last year we had 32 handlers and 120 dogs competing, this year there were 48 handlers and more than 200 dogs running.

"Over the weekend experienced competitors gave commentary on what was happening out on the ground, which added to the suspense and understanding of the juggle between three species - man, dog and sheep."

The volunteer led event was also a huge hit with the crowd.

"The large number of spectators created a positive and electric atmosphere and they were really interested in this heritage sport," Sarah said.

"Each day there was roughly 50 or more people watching and over the weekend there would have been about 300 to 350 people."

Sarah said the feedback from spectators was extremely positive.

"The people were impressed by the canteen, which provided the best steak sandwiches," she said.

"A local businessmen not only set up the courses, he also supplied and moved the sheep and provided the most tender steak from his butcher shop."

1st John Perry - Delrio Gem 99 98 197

2nd Mick Hudson - Ritchies Finn 92 98 190

3rd Paul O'Kane - O'Kanes Andrew Symonds 92 97 189

1st Paul Darmody - Annaway Dotti 94 88 182

2nd Barry McKenzie - Roseneath Sal 78 93 171

3rd Pip Hudson - Longerview Tank 85 82 167

1st Mick Hudson - MGH Tri 85 95 180

2nd Carol Trainor - MGH Flight 84 89 173

3rd Tony Elliott - Gundagai Luke 89 82 171

1st Teresa Kernahan - Neecabe Elphie 111

2nd (equal) Eileen Moriarty - Royalla Ned 86 / Bill Chalmers - Windeyer Fib 86