There was stiff competition at the 55th Seymour Working Sheep Dog Trials recently, with a Mirboo local taking out top honours in the Seymour Agricultural and Pastoral Society novice event.
Held at Kings Park from March 26 to 28, a good crowd turned out for the event which was ultimately won by John Stewart and his dog M8 with a score of 112.
Seymour farmer Peter McQueen provided the sheep for the day, with competitors coming from across the state.
The H.F. (Bert) Ridd improver trial was won by Wally Dalton of Toolern Vale with Jamiesons Maxine with a score of 150.
The Prince of Wales open trial was won by Bannockburn's Kellie Hodgson and Viewfield Penny with a score of 185.
The Graham Smith encourage trial was taken out by David Mackereth of Yarra Glen and Shep with a score of 70.
The farmers’ trial was won by Alan Franklin of St Albans with a score of 56.
The Brian O’Sullivan award for the fastest pen time was won by Kevin Wilson and Kayvin Old Cobber with a time of eight minutes 15 seconds, while the Tom Tehan Plate for the best all round trialist was won by Wonthaggi's Chris Davies with a consistently good performance across all areas.
The event was judged by Bill Paton, Ed Thompson and Brad Clarke of Pyalong.
Seymour Working Sheep Dog Club secretary Colin Davidson thanked the numerous volunteers who made the day possible.