Enter as a The Geelong College Junior Competitor
Enter photos into the Fox and LIllie Rural Photography Competition
Start the weekend off with a tasty breakfast and poetry recital. Be a part of the Kelpie Muster Street Parade Enter Novelty Events:
At just 11 years old, Kate Henry and her Kelpie, Kanika Croc, embody youthful enthusiasm and the close bonds between young handlers and their canine partners.
As they gear up for the 28th Eukanuba Australian Kelpie Muster, we delve into their story, which may inspire teenagers like Kate to take on the challenge.
For years, the Henry family has been a staple at the Casterton Kelpie Association, with involvement spanning from participating in auctions to volunteering on auction days for the local Polocrosse club. Kate has even made and sold dog treats with her school friend Ruby and taken home first place in the Junior Photo Competition.
The partnership between Kate and Croc is more than just a girl and her dog. It's a partnership fostered by mutual respect and an unspoken understanding.
When asked about her inspiration to enter The Geelong College Junior Competitor events, Kate is quick to express her gratitude to the sponsors.
“The Kelpie Association is very fortunate to have the support of many sponsors. The Geelong College sponsorship for junior competitors is a great way to encourage kids to show the connection and bond we have with our dogs.”
“We need to support these events to thank the sponsors who support the Kelpie Muster.”
Training for the Kelpie Muster has brought its own rewards.
Kate beams, "It’s a really great feeling when you can work a dog yourself to round up sheep and cattle and do a few tricks.”
Kate is like any other kid outside the training field—she rides her horse, enjoys reading, and plays netball. Yet, she cherishes the time spent with Croc the most. "He's more than a working dog; he's my mate," she says.
Like many kids in regional Victoria, Kate learned a lot growing up on the family farm; working with Croc has provided her with her own learning.
"Patience and positive reinforcement are essential in forging a strong bond with your dog,” Kate said.
“With these, your dog will always give its best effort to you. Croc is more than just a pet; he's a great mate, and I like just hanging out with him."
Anyone will tell you that working with animals may never go according to plan. For Kate, this brings her joy, as she recalls Croc's loyalty, goofy dog antics, and love of diving into the dam for a swim.
“He loves attention and will almost knock you over for a pat. Watching him round up the cat and guinea fowl is funny; when you take a photo of him, he always pricks his ears up.”
The Kelpie Muster is a celebration of skill and spirit, and Kate looks forward to meeting peers who share her passion.
" Win or lose , it's about the experience , the learning , and the joy of just being part of it all , "
- Kate encourages other kids.
To those contemplating their debut at the Muster, Kate's advice resonates with simplicity and truth: "Better to have tried than not. You may not win anything, but you will probably learn a thing or two."
So, to the juniors out there, take a leaf out of Kate and Croc's book. Dive in, have fun, and who knows? You might find a friend and a passion that lasts a lifetime.
Come, be a part of the 2024 Eukanuba Australian Kelpie Muster, where every heart beats in tandem with the paws that race across the field.
The 2024 Australian Kelpie Muster, with support from The Geelong College, features a Junior Competition that invites children aged 16 and under to demonstrate their skills alongside their Kelpie companions.
Junior participants and their Kelpies will have the opportunity to compete in exhilarating events such as the 50m Kelpie Dash and the Kelpie High Jump, testing speed and agility in a friendly competitive atmosphere.
This special event not only showcases the abilities of the young handlers and their devoted Kelpies but also fosters a sense of community among budding competitors and dog enthusiasts.
Casterton Kelpie Association, President Karen Stephens, encourages students under the age of 16 to have a go like Kate in these events.
“This is a participation section where we encourage students to have a go, compete with some of Australia’s best handlers providing opportunities to showcase their skills alongside their loyal Kelpie companions, and become the next generation of trainers.” she said.
Entry is free, so don’t delay, enter via the trybooking portal or scan the QR code: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1203657
Capture the spirit of the Kelpie in the bustling streets or the tranquil countryside and stand a chance to win exciting cash prizes!
The 2024 Fox & Lillie Kelpie Muster Photography Competition invites all budding photographers, whether you’re wielding a smartphone or a professional camera, to showcase your talent in our special theme: “Kelpie Goes to Town”.
This unique theme allows for a wide interpretation, welcoming entries that may not feature a traditional working Kelpie but perhaps a beloved pet on an adventure in the urban jungle or enjoying a serene getaway.
The competition boasts six diverse categories across junior and adult sections, promising an inclusive platform for photographers of all ages and skills.
Over the past year, we’ve seen remarkable talent, and we eagerly anticipate this year’s submissions. Remember, entering is free, and our streamlined online entry form makes participating simpler than ever.
To enter follow the link below or scan the QR code: https://www.castertonkelpieassociation.com.au/photocompetition/
Step into a world where creativity and community spirit unite under the vibrant banner of the Australian Kelpie ! We invite students, community organisations, school/community band and sporting groups to be a part of this year’s Kelpie Street Parade, a spectacular tradition that marks the beginning of our much-anticipated festival.
Imagine the main street of Casterton transforming into a pulsating artery of color, excitement, and joy, with each float telling a unique story that celebrates Casterton the birthplace of the kelpie.
Whether you choose to highlight the heroic tales of Kelpies, showcase the achievements of your group, or bring to life local legends and folklore, your contribution will add to the tapestry of joy and laughter that defines this event.
Let’s make this year’s parade the most spectacular yet, email your entry to president@castertonkelpieassociation.com.au
The Lions Club Poet’s Breakfast beckons you to embrace an opportunity to hone your public speaking skills and to give voice to your creative writing. Picture the scene: a crisp morning filled with the delicious aroma of breakfast cooking, setting the stage for a symphony of words and emotions.
Encouraged by the warm and welcoming atmosphere fostered by the Casterton Lions Club, participants of all ages can revel in the joy of expression and the thrill of performance.
This is not just a chance to showcase your talents; it’s an invitation to contribute to our region’s rich tapestry of local talent, to learn, to grow, and to be inspired.
So, let your words take flight in the company of peers and poetry enthusiasts.
Bone Appétit! Come for the poetry, stay for the breakfast, and leave with memories and skills that will last a lifetime.
Thanks to the Casterton Lions Club, this event continues to be a highlight for our community, nurturing young voices and celebrating the power of words.
Get ready, dog lovers and trick training aficionados! The Casterton Kelpie Association is thrilled to unveil the muchawaited Australian Kelpie Muster, perfectly aligned with the celebratory June King’s Birthday weekend. We are on the lookout for the most spectacular and breathtaking dog tricks to spotlight in our eagerly anticipated Novelty event: Best Dog Trick!
Does your loyal companion have a knack for tricks? Can race on a lead, or dress up for fun?
No entry is needed, just bring your showstopper to the Town Hall steps right after the street parade.
Our judges will assess each performance and declare the Best Dog Trick of the Australian Kelpie Muster.
Don’t worry if your beloved pet isn’t a Kelpie; we encourage all dog breeds to join in and demonstrate their amazing tricks.
It’s time to reveal your dog’s secret skills and partake in a memorable weekend filled with excitement, and plenty of tailwagging!
Let’s get the word out, encourage your dog-loving friends to participate.
This long weekend, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the 28th Eukanuba Australian Kelpie Muster, featuring bustling market stalls, an exuberant street parade, Kelpie events, and much more.
Be a spectator to unparalleled Kelpie athleticism as Australia’s top dogs aim for new records in the Kelpie High Jump, dash past the Henty Street speed limit, or exhibit remarkable endurance in the Kelpie Hill Climb.
Don’t forget to visit the Town Hall for the Rotary Art show, and Kelpie Photography exhibition, of the Stockmans challenge as the man, horse and dog show off their mustering skills.
JUNE 7-9
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