Working dogs from all over the state are set to contend at the first cattle dog trial in the region coming up next month.
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Canowindra's inaugural cattle dog trials are set to be held on Saturday, August 2.
Organiser Clint Oborn said the trials are similar to sheepdog events, but are specifically for dogs that work cattle.
"There are many trials held around the state but most of them are held further north," Mr Oborn said.
"We are hoping to spark some interest locally with the hope that not only can we run our own event but also encourage other similar events in this part of the world."
During the trials, dogs and their handlers have to direct three head of cattle around a course in a limited time frame starting with a score of 100.
Points are deducted for every error or for bad behaviour, resulting in the final score.
A total of $1000 prize money up for grabs on the day with several tiers of competition.
The maiden round will set you back $12; novice and final rounds $15; and open and finals $18.
"There's a maximum of 80 entries, and we already have 62 entries so we are travelling pretty well and will definitely have a good turn out on the day," Mr Oborn said.
"We are hoping to spark some interest locally with the hope that not only can we run our own event but also encourage other similar events in this part of the world."
- Organiser Clint Oborn
Judging the trials will be Cowra kelpie breeder Steve Weyman, who said the trick is to work the stock quietly and gently.
"The idea is to work more on efficiency than speed, without causing any distress to the animals," Mr Weyman said.
"The quieter and softer you are the more efficiently you handle the animals. When they get stirred up and cranky, no one wins."
Entries close July 27.
For more information, contact Amy Cutler on 02 4835 2494 or on amycutler86@hotmail.com.
