Community & Business
11 April, 2025
Utility dog trials returning to Woolshed for Easter
Utility sheepdog trials are back at the Jondaryan Woolshed for Easter in what’s set to be a big weekend at the historic Council-owned facility.
Taryn and Derek Binstead, who ran the utility sheep dog trials from 2012 until the COVID pandemic hit in 2020 are returning to steward the action.
“We are excited to return to the Easter festival with two full days of working dog action,” Taryn Binstead said.
“Utility Trials showcase the all-round, versatile working dog as they work three sheep around a paddock course and then join them with a small mob in the yards to show case their yard work before returning to the paddock to put three sheep away.
“On Saturday morning, we start with the best of the best in the Open trial, then in the afternoon will be the up and coming dogs in the Novice category.
“On Sunday we will have the Maiden and Encourage dogs with a few Junior Kids working their pups as well.”
If you would like to enter the competition, call Derek Binstead on 0409 800 159 or email arabanookelpies@yahoo.com.au
The competition will take place alongside the Jondaryan Woolshed’s Annual Easter Festival on the weekend of April 19th and 20th.
Games, rides, demonstrations and food are major attractions of the weekend.
A ride on a horse drawn wagon is $5, while $2 will secure a ticket on the Jondaryan mini steam train.
Free games include kite making, water slides, face painting and an animal nursery.
Alongside the working dogs, exhibitions of traditional aspects of farm life will feature whipcracking, shearing, blacksmithing and a machinery display.
Food trucks will be on-site along with a coffee van, the Damper Hut run by Mary-Lou Wicks and her team and a BBQ Hut.
Camping bookings are limited over the weekend, but try calling 0461 468 251 to see if any spots are available.
President of the Friends of the Jondaryan Woolshed Christine Buckley said the group will be putting on fish and chips on Friday night.
Bunnings Dalby, who allow the Friends to host regular fundraising barbecues outside their store will be running games.
Dalby’s Pioneer Park Museum will be visiting and make sure to keep an eye out for the Oakey Art Group.
