North-East Victorian farmer Aoidh Doyle expressed his joy after winning the Victorian Yard Dog Championship in Euroa with his kelpie, Cash. This victory marks another highlight in a series of impressive wins for Doyle in recent competitions.
Earlier this year, the Alexandra resident clinched the national championship and also triumphed at the Victorian Utility Dog Championship with his kelpie, Whisper Snip. Doyle previously secured the national championship title in 2022 with Cash and has dominated several smaller events this year with Whisper Snip.
Despite his success, Doyle maintains a humble approach to training, stating that he does not engage in any special preparations for competitions. “I don’t know, I think I just work at home… It’s just my day-to-day job,” he remarked when asked about his preparation.
Doyle’s daily routine includes herding sheep with his dogs as part of his business, Whisper Kelpies. He noted that after a full day of working with the dogs, he prefers to spend his evenings with his children rather than training. “The last thing I want to do when I get home is work dogs,” he explained.
James Fowler, convenor of the Victorian Yard Dog Championship, highlighted Doyle’s reputation within the dog community, noting his “Irish luck.” Fowler remarked, “He’s definitely skilled; he has a relaxed and practical approach to sheepdog trialing. He incorporates his work practices into his trial, and his dogs clearly respond well to his style.”
Doyle secured first place by narrowly defeating fellow handler Bree Cudmore, finishing with a score of 277.5 points out of 300, just 1.5 points ahead of Cudmore’s 276. Cash’s exceptional performance in the third round, earning 96 out of 100 points, was crucial to clinching the championship.
“Anyone could have won it in the top 25,” Fowler noted, emphasizing the competitiveness of the event. “If you’re a betting man, you’d say that there were 10 dogs eligible to win it.”
Fowler praised the championship, which took place at the Euroa Show, calling it “exceptional” due to record entries and strong crowd attendance. “To see locals coming out to watch is pleasing,” he added. The presence of ABC’s Country Hour broadcasting from the event also provided significant publicity, generating excitement among local listeners.
Related topics:
From Last Pick to Top Performer: Bear the Kelpie Triumphs
Veteran Discovers Healing Through Mobile Dog Therapy
Bear: Australia’s Top Farm Dog Takes the Cobber Challenge Title
