Leading the pack with working dog training in the Hepburn Shire

Hepburn Shire Council (Council) is proud to host Gary White, newly crowned Australian Utility Sheepdog Champion, to the Hepburn Shire this October. 

Fully funded by the Victorian Government’s Community Recovery Hub grants program, farmers and their working dogs from around the Shire will benefit from Gary White’s Working Dog Training School workshops.  

• Daylesford – Victoria Park Recreation Reserve, Tuesday 7 October 

• Kingston – Kingston Show Grounds, Wednesday 8 October 

• Clunes – Clunes Show Grounds, Thursday 9 October 

Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said that the workshops will provide expert training to working dogs of the region and provide an opportunity for farmers to connect. 

“The importance of community among our farmers cannot be understated. We have experienced difficult times of late with drought, the proposed Western Renewables Link, the Victorian Government’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy and rising industry costs. These workshops will not just sharpen the skill of our working dogs, but will bring our farmers together to connect, share knowledge and build resilience in a supportive learning environment,” said Cr Don Henderson.  

Gary is a highly respected handler and trainer, with an impressive career that includes eight national titles and 20 state titles in sheepdog trialling, alongside a long list of other placings.  

Known for his warm and inclusive teaching style, Gary leaves participants with newfound skills and a greater confidence in training and working with their dogs. 

A skilled farm dog can accomplish complex tasks in minutes. Tasks that would take a human, hours. More than workers, they are loyal companions who thrive on their role. But raising a great farm dog takes more than natural ability, it requires expert training.  

For full details and to register as either a participant or spectator, visit Emergency management events.

Photo courtesy of Angela White.