Birdwood Sheepdog Trial
2025 Hypro Group Birdwood Sheepdog Trial Promises Unforgettable Four-Day Experience
New Event Showcases Elite Sheepdog Training, Live Entertainment, and a Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Birdwood, SA – [18th to 21st April, 2025]
The Adelaide Hills and Barossa Working Sheepdog Club is proud to announce the 2025 Hypro Group Birdwood Sheepdog Trial, taking place from Friday, 18th April to Monday, 21st April 2025 at the JMS Rural Services Oval in Birdwood, SA.
Following last year’s outstanding turnout and community engagement, this exciting new event brings elite sheepdog trailing to a wider audience just 30 minutes from the city. Designed to entertain and inspire, the trial aims to promote the art of working and training top-class sheepdogs—encouraging both seasoned handlers and aspiring hobbyists to elevate their skills.
Event Highlights Include:
- Fierce competition:
- 4 Australian team representative handlers and dogs will be competing on Sunday.
- More than 70 dogs and 20 handlers across 4 classes.
- Four-Day Format:
- Friday: Novice and Encourage classes introduce young dogs to the game.
- Saturday: Improver competitions ramp up the challenge, accompanied by live demonstrations during lunch breaks.
- Sunday (and possibly Monday): Open classes and finals showcase the best in trailing talent.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere:
Enjoy a day out with live music from the band “Kick the Dog” (supporting men’s mental health), delicious meals provided by the Footy club, and a relaxed environment ideal for a leisurely day on the deck chair. - Commitment to Excellence and Animal Welfare:
The event emphasizes low stress stock handling and top-tier training techniques. Fresh sheep, provided daily by Simounds Transport, ensure that animal welfare remains a top priority. - Strong Sponsorship and Competitive Spirit:
With a cash prize pool of over $2000 and generous support from Hypro Group—an instrumental sponsor in South Australian trailing—the event sets the stage for competitive excellence and community celebration.
“Our vision is for this trial to become the jewel in the crown of sheepdog trailing in South Australia,” said the Club President. “We’re excited to offer a unique experience that combines elite competition with community spirit and quality family entertainment.”
For further details please contact:
Rory Watson Email: rbtilingservices01@gmail.com Phone: 0412 398 385
Andraya Simmonds: Email: ahbwsdc@gmail.com Phone: 0433 741 090
About the Adelaide Hills and Barossa Working Sheepdog Club:
Dedicated to the promotion of high standards in sheepdog trialing, the club is committed to fostering excellence, animal welfare, and community engagement across South Australia.
We meet monthly to encourage newcomers and develop our own working dogs to a high standard.