NewsBite

Nick: Genine Jackson’s kelpie from Charters Towers City;A hard working cattle musterer, Nick has recently become three legged, after one of his back legs had an extensive break and disclocation while working on his owner’s farm in Charters Towers City. “Nick came to me as a rescue at 5 months old, and safe to say he is a workaholic and quickly turned into my best work dog,” Ms Jackson said. ​Last year, Nick participated in the cobber working dog challenge and placed the 6th position among a total of 12 participants, he was the sole cattle working entrant (rest were sheep).“Even on four legs, Nick was an amazing dog but the resilience he has shown since losing his leg is remarkable,” she said. “Just three weeks after surgery he was back showing his kids how to work the sheep.”​
1/53Nick: Genine Jackson’s kelpie from Charters Towers City;A hard working cattle musterer, Nick has recently become three legged, after one of his back legs had an extensive break and disclocation while working on his owner’s farm in Charters Towers City. “Nick came to me as a rescue at 5 months old, and safe to say he is a workaholic and quickly turned into my best work dog,” Ms Jackson said. ​Last year, Nick participated in the cobber working dog challenge and placed the 6th position among a total of 12 participants, he was the sole cattle working entrant (rest were sheep).“Even on four legs, Nick was an amazing dog but the resilience he has shown since losing his leg is remarkable,” she said. “Just three weeks after surgery he was back showing his kids how to work the sheep.”​
Rip: Eddie Oram’s Cattle Dog from Rockhampton;When he’s not out with his boss, Eddie Oram spraying weeds for farmers; Rip the stumpy tail cattle dog can be found herding balls at home.
2/53Rip: Eddie Oram’s Cattle Dog from Rockhampton;When he’s not out with his boss, Eddie Oram spraying weeds for farmers; Rip the stumpy tail cattle dog can be found herding balls at home.
Patches: Gavman Porter’s Kelpie Cross from Redbank;Gavman Porter became Patches new owner after she had been working on a farm west of Ipswitch. Patches became Mr Porters loyal & loved family pet for over 8 years until she passed three years ago of cancer.
3/53Patches: Gavman Porter’s Kelpie Cross from Redbank;Gavman Porter became Patches new owner after she had been working on a farm west of Ipswitch. Patches became Mr Porters loyal & loved family pet for over 8 years until she passed three years ago of cancer.
Legs: Amanda Bolton’s Staffy x Terrier from Coleyville;1st of her name, Chief Navigator, Senior Machinery Operator, Head of Pest/Vermin Control and outstanding in her field.Often described by her peers as “A Good Doggo”
4/53Legs: Amanda Bolton’s Staffy x Terrier from Coleyville;1st of her name, Chief Navigator, Senior Machinery Operator, Head of Pest/Vermin Control and outstanding in her field.Often described by her peers as “A Good Doggo”
Pink (Shaundar Pink): Tammie Conroy’s Border collie from Coolmunda;Pink works cattle, sheep and goats both feral and domestic. She has also competed successfully in 3 Sheep trialling, Yard Dog trialling and Utility trialling. Pink and her owner Tammie Conroy are currently at the Australian Utility Championships representing Queensland. “She is no slouch though,” Ms Conroy said. “Pink only competes on weekends and spends her week days mustering and working on many local properties.”
5/53Pink (Shaundar Pink): Tammie Conroy’s Border collie from Coolmunda;Pink works cattle, sheep and goats both feral and domestic. She has also competed successfully in 3 Sheep trialling, Yard Dog trialling and Utility trialling. Pink and her owner Tammie Conroy are currently at the Australian Utility Championships representing Queensland. “She is no slouch though,” Ms Conroy said. “Pink only competes on weekends and spends her week days mustering and working on many local properties.”
Boof (Rojosassy Boof): Jamie & Amy Morris’s Kelpie from Deuchar;A registered kelpie bred for working cattle, Boof has work nearly every day since he was six months old. “He is a true work dog,” his owner Jamie Morris said. “He has been all over the country side mustering sheep, goats, cattle and even domesticated free range pigs.”Now 14 years old and going deaf, Boof is in retirement, with his role on the farm these days being a family/stud dog. “He still occasionally gets to work a few sheep or cattle at home,” Mr Morris said. ​
6/53Boof (Rojosassy Boof): Jamie & Amy Morris’s Kelpie from Deuchar;A registered kelpie bred for working cattle, Boof has work nearly every day since he was six months old. “He is a true work dog,” his owner Jamie Morris said. “He has been all over the country side mustering sheep, goats, cattle and even domesticated free range pigs.”Now 14 years old and going deaf, Boof is in retirement, with his role on the farm these days being a family/stud dog. “He still occasionally gets to work a few sheep or cattle at home,” Mr Morris said. ​
Bowie: Jess Russell’s blue koolie x from Maryborough;According to his owner, Jess Russell, Bowie is a master of trades, and doesn’t shy away from any task, and his skills are not limited to just herding.“The ultimate farm dog you‘re looking for is my boy, Bowie,” Ms Russel said.“Bowie is right there to back you up; whether you’re on a machine doing a bit of earthmoving, digging some post holes, or even just mowing the lawn. Wherever you are, Bowie is right there.”Bowie has developed such a deep trust and loyalty for his owners and will do anything he is asked to do out of sheer love and devotion. “Bowie isn’t scared or getting dirty and will even do mundane tasks like take the bins out or bring the mail in. You won’t find another dog like him,” she said. As well as incredibly smart and responsive, but Bowie also has a very sweet demeanour. “Bowie is the kind of dog that’s rare to come by, hard to forget, and easy to love.”“There’s something about him - like he’s been on this Earth before; he just knows. Like a person encapsulated in a dog’s body; the modern day “Red Dog” of his time.”​
7/53Bowie: Jess Russell’s blue koolie x from Maryborough;According to his owner, Jess Russell, Bowie is a master of trades, and doesn’t shy away from any task, and his skills are not limited to just herding.“The ultimate farm dog you‘re looking for is my boy, Bowie,” Ms Russel said.“Bowie is right there to back you up; whether you’re on a machine doing a bit of earthmoving, digging some post holes, or even just mowing the lawn. Wherever you are, Bowie is right there.”Bowie has developed such a deep trust and loyalty for his owners and will do anything he is asked to do out of sheer love and devotion. “Bowie isn’t scared or getting dirty and will even do mundane tasks like take the bins out or bring the mail in. You won’t find another dog like him,” she said. As well as incredibly smart and responsive, but Bowie also has a very sweet demeanour. “Bowie is the kind of dog that’s rare to come by, hard to forget, and easy to love.”“There’s something about him - like he’s been on this Earth before; he just knows. Like a person encapsulated in a dog’s body; the modern day “Red Dog” of his time.”​
Shelby: Kasey Jayne’s Miniature Foxy from Maryborough;Although she only weighs under 5kg, Shelby the Miniature Foxy is a diligant all-rounder farmhand. “She will hold back three calves while letting one through for its bottle feed, making sure they take it in turns and not all rush the bottle at once (that’s a hard accomplishment for a much bigger dog, or even a human),” her owner Kasey Jayne said. “She’ll stop a 17hh horse from kicking the stable gate trying to escape and make the horse wait quietly at the back of its stall, and will go under a building to round up and baby chickens that escaped drive them right back into their pen. “She will stop a goat climbing a fence and keep the actual working dogs in line. All without training, just a strong bond with her human, resulting in a strong will to please and an understanding of her owners unofficial commands.”Ms Jayde said that Shelby also protects her people and property with everything she has.
8/53Shelby: Kasey Jayne’s Miniature Foxy from Maryborough;Although she only weighs under 5kg, Shelby the Miniature Foxy is a diligant all-rounder farmhand. “She will hold back three calves while letting one through for its bottle feed, making sure they take it in turns and not all rush the bottle at once (that’s a hard accomplishment for a much bigger dog, or even a human),” her owner Kasey Jayne said. “She’ll stop a 17hh horse from kicking the stable gate trying to escape and make the horse wait quietly at the back of its stall, and will go under a building to round up and baby chickens that escaped drive them right back into their pen. “She will stop a goat climbing a fence and keep the actual working dogs in line. All without training, just a strong bond with her human, resulting in a strong will to please and an understanding of her owners unofficial commands.”Ms Jayde said that Shelby also protects her people and property with everything she has.
Raf: Chris Coman’s Kelpie from Dalby;Raf works with weaner cattle and sheep on a small farm in Dalby and has just started sheepdog yard & utility trials. “He is a great mate and never too far away from me,” Mr Coman. “I nominated him because he is a super handsome dog that can also do real work during the week & then go trialling over the weekend. Farms dogs don’t have to look unkept & starved to work.”
9/53Raf: Chris Coman’s Kelpie from Dalby;Raf works with weaner cattle and sheep on a small farm in Dalby and has just started sheepdog yard & utility trials. “He is a great mate and never too far away from me,” Mr Coman. “I nominated him because he is a super handsome dog that can also do real work during the week & then go trialling over the weekend. Farms dogs don’t have to look unkept & starved to work.”
Maximus: Sandra Davies’ purebred Australian Kelpie from Chinchilla;While Maximus doesn’t work livestock yet, his natural instinct has him rounding up his owner Sandra Davies’ grandchildren. “He keeps them in a mob and retrieves the wanderers to the herd,” Ms Davis said.“He is a beautiful example of a extroverted australian kelpie.”
10/53Maximus: Sandra Davies’ purebred Australian Kelpie from Chinchilla;While Maximus doesn’t work livestock yet, his natural instinct has him rounding up his owner Sandra Davies’ grandchildren. “He keeps them in a mob and retrieves the wanderers to the herd,” Ms Davis said.“He is a beautiful example of a extroverted australian kelpie.”
Dusty: Barb Dixon’s Kelpie from Roma;Only six months old, Dusty works as an allrounder sheep and goat mustering dog on Barb Dixon’s farm in Roma. ​
11/53Dusty: Barb Dixon’s Kelpie from Roma;Only six months old, Dusty works as an allrounder sheep and goat mustering dog on Barb Dixon’s farm in Roma. ​
Rat: Sarah Horrocks’ Border collie cross from Monto; At only six months old, Rat is a learning work dog on his owner, Sarah Horrocks’ farm in Monto.
12/53Rat: Sarah Horrocks’ Border collie cross from Monto; At only six months old, Rat is a learning work dog on his owner, Sarah Horrocks’ farm in Monto.
Sid and Buzz: Jess Aisthorpe’s cattle dogs from Blackall;Mustering dogs, Sid and Buzz work as Jess Aisthorpe’s offsiders on her Blackall property. Buzz is a lead dog, ushering the cattle to their destination, while Sid is a pressure dog, whose role is to bring back wondering cattle and muster the herd together. “Sid is very affectionate, he always tries to hug and give kisses even when they are not wanted while for Buzz, his only goal is to work not play,” Ms Aisthorpe said.
13/53Sid and Buzz: Jess Aisthorpe’s cattle dogs from Blackall;Mustering dogs, Sid and Buzz work as Jess Aisthorpe’s offsiders on her Blackall property. Buzz is a lead dog, ushering the cattle to their destination, while Sid is a pressure dog, whose role is to bring back wondering cattle and muster the herd together. “Sid is very affectionate, he always tries to hug and give kisses even when they are not wanted while for Buzz, his only goal is to work not play,” Ms Aisthorpe said.
Pippa: Mel Vonhoff’s Australian Cattle Dog from the Toowoomba region;Pippa’s role on her owner, Mel Vonhoff’s toowooba farm is to move cattle, whether its the milk herd or weaner calves and she even assists in loading the truck. “She is a beautiful dog who keeps a close eye on our toddler whenever he’s “helping” in the dairy,” Ms Vonhoff said.
14/53Pippa: Mel Vonhoff’s Australian Cattle Dog from the Toowoomba region;Pippa’s role on her owner, Mel Vonhoff’s toowooba farm is to move cattle, whether its the milk herd or weaner calves and she even assists in loading the truck. “She is a beautiful dog who keeps a close eye on our toddler whenever he’s “helping” in the dairy,” Ms Vonhoff said.
Layla, Walter & Lexie: Janelle Henderson’s Border Collies from Warwick;All working dog bred border collies, and while they certainly have the instinct, Layla, Walter and Lexie are more pet dogs than working dogs. “ Our true working dogs are not as beautiful as these three,” their owner, Janelle Henderson said.
15/53Layla, Walter & Lexie: Janelle Henderson’s Border Collies from Warwick;All working dog bred border collies, and while they certainly have the instinct, Layla, Walter and Lexie are more pet dogs than working dogs. “ Our true working dogs are not as beautiful as these three,” their owner, Janelle Henderson said.
Buddy: Liam Holland’s Cattle Dog x from Warwick;Buddy is a professional goat herder, living on his owner, Liam Holland’s farm west of Warwick.
16/53Buddy: Liam Holland’s Cattle Dog x from Warwick;Buddy is a professional goat herder, living on his owner, Liam Holland’s farm west of Warwick.
Jack: Katrina Cullen’s farm dog from Warwick;A working dog on Katrina Cullen’s farm in Warwick, Jack mainly works with sheep.
17/53Jack: Katrina Cullen’s farm dog from Warwick;A working dog on Katrina Cullen’s farm in Warwick, Jack mainly works with sheep.
Beau (Bull Arab x American Bulldog), Rusty (Kelpie) and Storm (Bull terrier x wolfhound): Steven Brown’s farm dogs from Clifton;Beau, Rusty and Storm work on their owner, Steven Brown’s farm in Clifton as well as neighbouring properties doing pest control work.
18/53Beau (Bull Arab x American Bulldog), Rusty (Kelpie) and Storm (Bull terrier x wolfhound): Steven Brown’s farm dogs from Clifton;Beau, Rusty and Storm work on their owner, Steven Brown’s farm in Clifton as well as neighbouring properties doing pest control work.
Oscar: Tracie Sidney’s Kelpie from Roma;Oscar works as a cattle musterer on Tracie Sidney’s farm in Roma.
19/53Oscar: Tracie Sidney’s Kelpie from Roma;Oscar works as a cattle musterer on Tracie Sidney’s farm in Roma.
Mutley: Deziree Roos’ Cattle/Border Collie cross from Oakhurst (Carratum Park);Mutley helps his owner Deziree Roos with off the track thoroughbred horses, as well as leading the way on trail rides and supervising arena rides and the kids while they are having their lessons. Mutley is male. He is a fantastic farm dog as he helps with Off The Track thoroughbred horses in the retraining for new homes. Mutley leads the way on trail rides, supervises arena rides and kids having lessons. “He loves the Land Cruiser trips to horse shows and clinics and makes every new friend Carratum Park meets feel welcome,” Deziree Roos partner, Cindy Gannon said. “Mutley is the master of fetch and convinces even the most reluctant people into playing.” “He is an hard working athlete, our absolute mascot - the epitome of his breed which is 100% purebred good boy.”
20/53Mutley: Deziree Roos’ Cattle/Border Collie cross from Oakhurst (Carratum Park);Mutley helps his owner Deziree Roos with off the track thoroughbred horses, as well as leading the way on trail rides and supervising arena rides and the kids while they are having their lessons. Mutley is male. He is a fantastic farm dog as he helps with Off The Track thoroughbred horses in the retraining for new homes. Mutley leads the way on trail rides, supervises arena rides and kids having lessons. “He loves the Land Cruiser trips to horse shows and clinics and makes every new friend Carratum Park meets feel welcome,” Deziree Roos partner, Cindy Gannon said. “Mutley is the master of fetch and convinces even the most reluctant people into playing.” “He is an hard working athlete, our absolute mascot - the epitome of his breed which is 100% purebred good boy.”
Miley: Darren Woodward’s Cattle dog from Maryborough;Miley lives with her owner, Darren Woodward on his hobby farm in Maryborough, where is the boss dog, and “doesn’t do much apart from barking out orders”.Mr Woodward said the her main role is to protect the humans from constant daily threats: the postman, the wheelie bin man every Friday, numerous wallabies and attacking crows, all that she isn’t allowed to chase any of them. While she is not a typical farm dog, Mr Woodward nominated her for her loyal nature and her intelligence.
21/53Miley: Darren Woodward’s Cattle dog from Maryborough;Miley lives with her owner, Darren Woodward on his hobby farm in Maryborough, where is the boss dog, and “doesn’t do much apart from barking out orders”.Mr Woodward said the her main role is to protect the humans from constant daily threats: the postman, the wheelie bin man every Friday, numerous wallabies and attacking crows, all that she isn’t allowed to chase any of them. While she is not a typical farm dog, Mr Woodward nominated her for her loyal nature and her intelligence.
Nitro (Bull Arab/ cattle dog x) and Milo (Bull mastiff x): Jarred Dove’s farm dogs from Biggenden;Working as local feral pig control, Nitro and Milo have been described by their owner Jarred Dove as “great farm dogs with great determination and loyalty, as well as a caring attitude towards people and kids.”
22/53Nitro (Bull Arab/ cattle dog x) and Milo (Bull mastiff x): Jarred Dove’s farm dogs from Biggenden;Working as local feral pig control, Nitro and Milo have been described by their owner Jarred Dove as “great farm dogs with great determination and loyalty, as well as a caring attitude towards people and kids.”
Patterson, Sunny and Matilda: Nicole George Trousdell’s kelpies from Maryborough;Assisting with managing a small herd of cattle on Nicole George Trousdell’s 76 acre property, Patterson, Sunny and Matilda studied their way to farm dog greatness, attending many working dog schools to develop their skills.Assisting with managing a small herd of cattle on Nicole George Trousdell’s 76 acre property, Patterson, Sunny and Matilda studied their way to farm dog greatness, attending many working dog schools to develop their skills. “Sunny’s dad Frost was bred by Neil McDonald who was the judge on the series muster dogs. We purchased her as a trained working kelpie.”
23/53Patterson, Sunny and Matilda: Nicole George Trousdell’s kelpies from Maryborough;Assisting with managing a small herd of cattle on Nicole George Trousdell’s 76 acre property, Patterson, Sunny and Matilda studied their way to farm dog greatness, attending many working dog schools to develop their skills.Assisting with managing a small herd of cattle on Nicole George Trousdell’s 76 acre property, Patterson, Sunny and Matilda studied their way to farm dog greatness, attending many working dog schools to develop their skills. “Sunny’s dad Frost was bred by Neil McDonald who was the judge on the series muster dogs. We purchased her as a trained working kelpie.”
Ripper: Demi Radosevic’s Border collie from Hervey Bay;Demi Radosevic’s four year old border collie Ripper works as a cattle musterer on her Fraser Coast farm.He is a very hard, nose and ear biting dog, specialising in keeping rank cows or stubborn bulls in line, even going as far as following bulls into a dam to get them back out. He was initially brought to his owner, Demi Radosevic‘s farm to be an extra hand for her main working dog at the time, Digger. “I sadly lost Digger but Ripper stepped up and became my main working dog by 12 months of age,” Mrs Radosevic said. ”His work drive is second to none and he can go all day. He loves going for a ride on the ute and is always up for a fence or lick run.” When there is no work to be done, he is happy to laze around the house yard or on the couch. “Ripper has a great off switch, and is also super with little kids and loves following my toddler everywhere,” she said. In November last year, he injured his cruciate ligament and needed knee surgery. “He spent 12 weeks on strict crate rest and then did 4 months of hydrotherapy as rehabilitation.” “He’s now fully healed and slowly starting back into work.”
24/53Ripper: Demi Radosevic’s Border collie from Hervey Bay;
Demi Radosevic’s four year old border collie Ripper works as a cattle musterer on her Fraser Coast farm.He is a very hard, nose and ear biting dog, specialising in keeping rank cows or stubborn bulls in line, even going as far as following bulls into a dam to get them back out. He was initially brought to his owner, Demi Radosevic‘s farm to be an extra hand for her main working dog at the time, Digger. “I sadly lost Digger but Ripper stepped up and became my main working dog by 12 months of age,” Mrs Radosevic said. ”His work drive is second to none and he can go all day. He loves going for a ride on the ute and is always up for a fence or lick run.” When there is no work to be done, he is happy to laze around the house yard or on the couch. “Ripper has a great off switch, and is also super with little kids and loves following my toddler everywhere,” she said. In November last year, he injured his cruciate ligament and needed knee surgery. “He spent 12 weeks on strict crate rest and then did 4 months of hydrotherapy as rehabilitation.” “He’s now fully healed and slowly starting back into work.”
Kevin: Brooke Pennell’s kelpie from Mooloolaba;Adopted by Brooke Pennell from the Fraser Coast pound during covid, although Kevin looks the part, he is somewhat lacking natural kelpie ability. “He however has been a great farm dog and a companion for our poddy calves that have lost their mothers,” Ms Pennell said. “Kevin loves all creatures from cats to bulls and everything in between.He will run all day long in the paddock and loves the open space.”
25/53Kevin: Brooke Pennell’s kelpie from Mooloolaba;Adopted by Brooke Pennell from the Fraser Coast pound during covid, although Kevin looks the part, he is somewhat lacking natural kelpie ability. “He however has been a great farm dog and a companion for our poddy calves that have lost their mothers,” Ms Pennell said. “Kevin loves all creatures from cats to bulls and everything in between.He will run all day long in the paddock and loves the open space.”
Max: Margaret Cowell’s Border Collies from Warwick;Max has been working as a cattle musterer on Margaret Cowell’s Warwick farm for three years now. “He works cattle along with my hard working horses,” Ms Cowell said. Max (on the left) is pictured with his younger sister Bird (on the right) who is only six months old and hasn’t started work yet but will start coming along in the next few months.“These dogs aren’t only my work dogs they are my mates, that’s why I nominated Max,” she said.
26/53Max: Margaret Cowell’s Border Collies from Warwick;Max has been working as a cattle musterer on Margaret Cowell’s Warwick farm for three years now. “He works cattle along with my hard working horses,” Ms Cowell said. Max (on the left) is pictured with his younger sister Bird (on the right) who is only six months old and hasn’t started work yet but will start coming along in the next few months.“These dogs aren’t only my work dogs they are my mates, that’s why I nominated Max,” she said.
Maisy and Stella: Lindy Bennett’s farm dogs from Gympie;Maisy and Stella work mustering cattle on Lindy Bennet’s farm in Gympie. “Stella is our best working dog and Maisy is handy to have as well,” Ms Bennett said.
27/53Maisy and Stella: Lindy Bennett’s farm dogs from Gympie;Maisy and Stella work mustering cattle on Lindy Bennet’s farm in Gympie. “Stella is our best working dog and Maisy is handy to have as well,” Ms Bennett said.
Sally: Tennille Hughes’ Border collie from Gympie;According to Sally’s owner Tennille Hughes, she is shaping up to be the top cattle mustering dog at Bryvonlea Droughtmasters in Gympie. “She is an absolute machine at rounding up the cattle but in a steady calm way,” Ms Hughes said.
28/53Sally: Tennille Hughes’ Border collie from Gympie;According to Sally’s owner Tennille Hughes, she is shaping up to be the top cattle mustering dog at Bryvonlea Droughtmasters in Gympie. “She is an absolute machine at rounding up the cattle but in a steady calm way,” Ms Hughes said.
Tilly: Lachy McMahon’s Kelpie from Gympie;​Raised by Lachy McMahon since she was eight weeks old, Tilly, who is now three years old, helps Mr McMahon out at his workplace, Templeton Farming, working on the cattle team where she handles mobs of 100+ on her own with ease. ​
29/53Tilly: Lachy McMahon’s Kelpie from Gympie;​Raised by Lachy McMahon since she was eight weeks old, Tilly, who is now three years old, helps Mr McMahon out at his workplace, Templeton Farming, working on the cattle team where she handles mobs of 100+ on her own with ease. ​
Fuzz: Stephanie Mills’ purebred Border Collie from Gympie;Raised by Stephanie Mills from only eight weeks old, pure bred border collie Fuzz is now three years old, and is a proud emplyee at Templeton farming enterprises. “She is my main dog to break and educate the weaners,” Ms Mills said. “She was also responsible for breaking and educating the winning team of chambray steers at the 2023 All breeds steer sale at Biggenden.”
30/53Fuzz: Stephanie Mills’ purebred Border Collie from Gympie;Raised by Stephanie Mills from only eight weeks old, pure bred border collie Fuzz is now three years old, and is a proud emplyee at Templeton farming enterprises. “She is my main dog to break and educate the weaners,” Ms Mills said. “She was also responsible for breaking and educating the winning team of chambray steers at the 2023 All breeds steer sale at Biggenden.”
Jackson: Julianne Munn’s Border Collie from Glastonbury;A great protector, Jackson loves to watch over the sheep and cattle on his owner, Julianne Munn’s farm in Glastonbury near Gympie. While Jackson keeps a watchful eye on the cattle, he works with the sheep on the farm and watches over the lambs. “He’s very loyal and loves kids,” Ms Munn said. “He gets to come to work with me to my doggy daycare and hang out with his friends.”
31/53Jackson: Julianne Munn’s Border Collie from Glastonbury;A great protector, Jackson loves to watch over the sheep and cattle on his owner, Julianne Munn’s farm in Glastonbury near Gympie. While Jackson keeps a watchful eye on the cattle, he works with the sheep on the farm and watches over the lambs. “He’s very loyal and loves kids,” Ms Munn said. “He gets to come to work with me to my doggy daycare and hang out with his friends.”
Enzo and Swift: Suzanne ‘Fordham’ McCowen’s Border Collies from Gundiah;Skilled cattle musterers, Enzo and Swift work as a great force in the cattle yards at Suzanne Fordham McCowen’s farm in Gundiah. “They have a presence about them, and a terrific eye, that makes the cattle move without them needing to bark or bite,” Ms McCowen said. “They listen to our calls and do exactly what we need them to do, when we need them to do it. Enzo is my dog and he protects me. One day I slipped over in the yards and he forced all the cattle away from me until I was back up on my feet. He just knows stuff!”
32/53Enzo and Swift: Suzanne ‘Fordham’ McCowen’s Border Collies from Gundiah;Skilled cattle musterers, Enzo and Swift work as a great force in the cattle yards at Suzanne Fordham McCowen’s farm in Gundiah. “They have a presence about them, and a terrific eye, that makes the cattle move without them needing to bark or bite,” Ms McCowen said. “They listen to our calls and do exactly what we need them to do, when we need them to do it. Enzo is my dog and he protects me. One day I slipped over in the yards and he forced all the cattle away from me until I was back up on my feet. He just knows stuff!”
Paddy: Deb Brown’s Border Collie from Gympie;A farmhand allrounder, Paddy helps his owner, Deb Brown with irrigation and shifting the sheep and cattle into the paddocks. Paddy also guards the motorbike and blocks gates well —”sometimes a little too well”.“is happy to hitch a ride when he can or run all day.”Hi Jordyn...lovely my dog has been nominated....His name is Paddy..he is a Border Collie and he is just the best little dog...always beside us whether doing irrigation or shifting the sheep or cows into other paddocks...and always happy to guard the motorbike...and blocks a gate well...sometimes a little too well...happy to hitch a ride when he can...however will run all day...and has the best nature...loves everyone and everyone loves him...he is my best mate
33/53Paddy: Deb Brown’s Border Collie from Gympie;A farmhand allrounder, Paddy helps his owner, Deb Brown with irrigation and shifting the sheep and cattle into the paddocks. Paddy also guards the motorbike and blocks gates well —”sometimes a little too well”.“is happy to hitch a ride when he can or run all day.”Hi Jordyn...lovely my dog has been nominated....His name is Paddy..he is a Border Collie and he is just the best little dog...always beside us whether doing irrigation or shifting the sheep or cows into other paddocks...and always happy to guard the motorbike...and blocks a gate well...sometimes a little too well...happy to hitch a ride when he can...however will run all day...and has the best nature...loves everyone and everyone loves him...he is my best mate
Pippi: Alex Slack’s Kelpie from Coalstoun Lakes;An “epic” working dog, Pippi has been working on her owner Alex Slack’s farm in Coalstoun for 13 years now. “Although slightly grey she still helps... but more in a supervisory position,” Mrs Slack said. “In her hay day she would lead a team of 4 other dogs to muster beef cattle all over the North Burnett.”Mrs Slack’s “super dog” Pippi has won the dog high jump at gayndah show four years in a row, and even once entered a dog trial and got into the final with a score of 87.“She does her very very best for me and it makes me sad to think she doesn‘t have that many years left with me,” Mrs Slack said. “I certainly think she deserves your title of Queensland’s best working dog. She’s certainly a winner in my eyes.”
34/53Pippi: Alex Slack’s Kelpie from Coalstoun Lakes;An “epic” working dog, Pippi has been working on her owner Alex Slack’s farm in Coalstoun for 13 years now. “Although slightly grey she still helps... but more in a supervisory position,” Mrs Slack said. “In her hay day she would lead a team of 4 other dogs to muster beef cattle all over the North Burnett.”Mrs Slack’s “super dog” Pippi has won the dog high jump at gayndah show four years in a row, and even once entered a dog trial and got into the final with a score of 87.“She does her very very best for me and it makes me sad to think she doesn‘t have that many years left with me,” Mrs Slack said. “I certainly think she deserves your title of Queensland’s best working dog. She’s certainly a winner in my eyes.”
Gracie: Billy Sarnadsky’s Border collie x black barb from Bundaberg;Whether her owner, Billy Sarnadsky, wants her to muster one cow or 100, Gracie is up to the task. “She was the second dog I’ve bought and she has taught me so much about working cattle with dogs,” Mr Sarnadsky said.“She is ever reliable and an absolute champion worker. She is also great around the house and switches off from the working environment and becomes the best pet you could have.”
35/53Gracie: Billy Sarnadsky’s Border collie x black barb from Bundaberg;Whether her owner, Billy Sarnadsky, wants her to muster one cow or 100, Gracie is up to the task. “She was the second dog I’ve bought and she has taught me so much about working cattle with dogs,” Mr Sarnadsky said.“She is ever reliable and an absolute champion worker. She is also great around the house and switches off from the working environment and becomes the best pet you could have.”
Lj: Jasmine Hansen’s German shorthaired pointer from Chinchilla;Lj handles pest control and cattle mustering with her owner, Jasmine Hansen, on a farm in Chinchilla. “Lj is your number one contractor for mice,” Ms Hansen said. “She also loves to track down quails and rabbits although never catches them.”​
36/53Lj: Jasmine Hansen’s German shorthaired pointer from Chinchilla;Lj handles pest control and cattle mustering with her owner, Jasmine Hansen, on a farm in Chinchilla. “Lj is your number one contractor for mice,” Ms Hansen said. “She also loves to track down quails and rabbits although never catches them.”​
Stanley: Melanie Haddon’s pure-bred Kelpie from Conondale;18 month old Stanely works with dairy cattle with his owner, Melanie Haddon —who is a dairy farmer— on her property in Conondale, part of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. “He is a ripper of a wroking with his dairy cows,” she said. “While his big sister likes to sit on the side by side buggy seat, Stanley is hot on his paws looking for cows to round up and bring to the milking shed. He‘s rewarded with some warm milk and some big cuddles.”
37/53Stanley: Melanie Haddon’s pure-bred Kelpie from Conondale;18 month old Stanely works with dairy cattle with his owner, Melanie Haddon —who is a dairy farmer— on her property in Conondale, part of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. “He is a ripper of a wroking with his dairy cows,” she said. “While his big sister likes to sit on the side by side buggy seat, Stanley is hot on his paws looking for cows to round up and bring to the milking shed. He‘s rewarded with some warm milk and some big cuddles.”
Rex: Brandon Heale and Talitha June Mulvena’s Red Cattle Dog from Bundaberg;A dedicated farm hand, Brandon Heale and Talitha June Mulvena’s red cattle dog, Rex has saved his owners nephew twice from being bitten by a snake. “Rex chose my partner and I as a puppy and hasn’t left our side since,” Ms Mulvena said. “He always loves going for rides on the bikes and tractors, and gives his absolute all to the farm.”​
38/53Rex: Brandon Heale and Talitha June Mulvena’s Red Cattle Dog from Bundaberg;A dedicated farm hand, Brandon Heale and Talitha June Mulvena’s red cattle dog, Rex has saved his owners nephew twice from being bitten by a snake. “Rex chose my partner and I as a puppy and hasn’t left our side since,” Ms Mulvena said. “He always loves going for rides on the bikes and tractors, and gives his absolute all to the farm.”​
Scar: Stephen and Diane Martin’s Kelpie from Gladstone;Loved by many, Scar is the leader of a pack of four working dogs at Stephen and Diane Martin’s farm in Gladstone. Working tirelessly alongside his owners, Scar works to keep the cattle in check and their property free of mice, rats and other pests. Five seperate people, aside from his owners, have reached out to the Gladstone Observer, saying that Scar is “the best farm dog you’ll ever find.”“They‘re just an amazing little crew. Always love getting the chance to watch them work together,” Em Mac said. “A very intuitive, hardworking & intelligent dog, he’s like a little person,” Sam Martin said. Sam’s wife, Starcee added “he never misses a beat.”​
39/53Scar: Stephen and Diane Martin’s Kelpie from Gladstone;Loved by many, Scar is the leader of a pack of four working dogs at Stephen and Diane Martin’s farm in Gladstone. Working tirelessly alongside his owners, Scar works to keep the cattle in check and their property free of mice, rats and other pests. Five seperate people, aside from his owners, have reached out to the Gladstone Observer, saying that Scar is “the best farm dog you’ll ever find.”“They‘re just an amazing little crew. Always love getting the chance to watch them work together,” Em Mac said. “A very intuitive, hardworking & intelligent dog, he’s like a little person,” Sam Martin said. Sam’s wife, Starcee added “he never misses a beat.”​
Kaos: Kieran Dowd’s American Pitbull Terrier from Mackay; “Kaos was hands down the best dog I’ve ever owned,” his owner, Kieran Dowd said. “He kept the goats in line, was great for catching rats and his favourite thing was riding in the ute.” “He never hurt the livestock and chickens, and was a great guard dog.”Unfortunatley, Kaos passed away from cancer at the start of this year.
40/53Kaos: Kieran Dowd’s American Pitbull Terrier from Mackay; “Kaos was hands down the best dog I’ve ever owned,” his owner, Kieran Dowd said. “He kept the goats in line, was great for catching rats and his favourite thing was riding in the ute.” “He never hurt the livestock and chickens, and was a great guard dog.”Unfortunatley, Kaos passed away from cancer at the start of this year.
Ruby: Janelle and Fred Axiak’s farm dog from Mackay;While she isn’t much of a working dog ‘persay’, 11 year old Ruby is always there to give her owner, Fred Axiak, moral support while he is working on the cane farm. “She has a very important job,” Janelle Axiak said.
41/53Ruby: Janelle and Fred Axiak’s farm dog from Mackay;While she isn’t much of a working dog ‘persay’, 11 year old Ruby is always there to give her owner, Fred Axiak, moral support while he is working on the cane farm. “She has a very important job,” Janelle Axiak said.
Button: Madonna Craig Zerk’s Kelpie/ collie x from Maranoa; Nine year old Button has worked on his owner Madonna Craig Zerk’s farm in Maranoa all his life, helping out with cattle and sheep. Button has recently lost an eye but is in full recovery, ready to go again.
42/53Button: Madonna Craig Zerk’s Kelpie/ collie x from Maranoa; Nine year old Button has worked on his owner Madonna Craig Zerk’s farm in Maranoa all his life, helping out with cattle and sheep. Button has recently lost an eye but is in full recovery, ready to go again.
Molly, Ava, Rusty and Hugo: Tonya Densley’s mini dachshunds from Dalby;Small dogs with the courage of a big dog, Tonya Densley’s cattle creek dachshunds love cruising around their family feedlot and checking on the cattle. “They love walking through the cattle making sure the cattle and telling them who is boss,” Ms Densley said.
43/53Molly, Ava, Rusty and Hugo: Tonya Densley’s mini dachshunds from Dalby;Small dogs with the courage of a big dog, Tonya Densley’s cattle creek dachshunds love cruising around their family feedlot and checking on the cattle. “They love walking through the cattle making sure the cattle and telling them who is boss,” Ms Densley said.
Pig and Rona: Tylah Bonisch’s Border Collies from Injune;Pig and Rona work as cattle musterers on their owner, Tylah Bonisch’s property outside of Injune. “They are my best mates,” Ms Bonisch said. “While they aren’t overly helpful when it comes to a lick run or bore run, they come along for the drive anyway.”
44/53Pig and Rona: Tylah Bonisch’s Border Collies from Injune;Pig and Rona work as cattle musterers on their owner, Tylah Bonisch’s property outside of Injune. “They are my best mates,” Ms Bonisch said. “While they aren’t overly helpful when it comes to a lick run or bore run, they come along for the drive anyway.”
Whip: Phil Mclay’s Border collie from Bundaberg;Whip works as a stock dog on Phil Mclay’s farm in Bundaberg, she also works at a school with students and their stock work.
45/53Whip: Phil Mclay’s Border collie from Bundaberg;Whip works as a stock dog on Phil Mclay’s farm in Bundaberg, she also works at a school with students and their stock work.
Dakota: Jude Kilby’s kelpie from the Gold Coast/ Tasmania;Living between Tasmania and the Gold Coast, Dakota helps herd sheep on her owner Judy Kilby’s farm. “She has only been doing it for six months and she is a natural, very calm and gentle with them,” Mrs Kilby said. ​The Kilby’s adopted Dakota when she was18 months old and living on the Sunshine Coast. She was being badly neglected by her previous owners: never been off the chain, in a car or taken to the vet. she wasn’t fed often and was beaten by them.“When we went up to get her. she wasn’t in a good way,” Mrs Kilby said. “Fast forward, we are now living on a hobby farm in Tassie and she is awesome.We run sheep here and she is about 80% working efficiently and learning each time she gets around them.”Mrs Kilby said that what impresses her most about Dakota is that she just really tries hard to please and seems so appreciative.“ I know that sounds strange but I think she still remembers her beginning in life.She is now mine and my husband’s best mate and she has slept on our bed from day one.”​
46/53Dakota: Jude Kilby’s kelpie from the Gold Coast/ Tasmania;Living between Tasmania and the Gold Coast, Dakota helps herd sheep on her owner Judy Kilby’s farm. “She has only been doing it for six months and she is a natural, very calm and gentle with them,” Mrs Kilby said. ​The Kilby’s adopted Dakota when she was18 months old and living on the Sunshine Coast. She was being badly neglected by her previous owners: never been off the chain, in a car or taken to the vet. she wasn’t fed often and was beaten by them.“When we went up to get her. she wasn’t in a good way,” Mrs Kilby said. “Fast forward, we are now living on a hobby farm in Tassie and she is awesome.We run sheep here and she is about 80% working efficiently and learning each time she gets around them.”Mrs Kilby said that what impresses her most about Dakota is that she just really tries hard to please and seems so appreciative.“ I know that sounds strange but I think she still remembers her beginning in life.She is now mine and my husband’s best mate and she has slept on our bed from day one.”​
Ice: Bonnie Hickmott’s Border collie from Ilbilbie;Mostly helping out with mustering cattle on his owner, Bonnie Hickmott’s farm in Ilbilbie, Ice is a very gentle dog who works will the cattle calmly and attentively— “which is very important when it comes to cattle.”“I work on a few different properties & and I’d be lost without his help,” Ms Hickmott said. “He also knows when to switch from working dog to best friend and can do it in the blink of an eye.”“He is my best mate & comes everywhere with me. He may get a little bit stuck on the pet side & you’ll catch him licking cows on the nose that he is supposed to be working.”
47/53Ice: Bonnie Hickmott’s Border collie from Ilbilbie;Mostly helping out with mustering cattle on his owner, Bonnie Hickmott’s farm in Ilbilbie, Ice is a very gentle dog who works will the cattle calmly and attentively— “which is very important when it comes to cattle.”“I work on a few different properties & and I’d be lost without his help,” Ms Hickmott said. “He also knows when to switch from working dog to best friend and can do it in the blink of an eye.”“He is my best mate & comes everywhere with me. He may get a little bit stuck on the pet side & you’ll catch him licking cows on the nose that he is supposed to be working.”
Sid: Claire Jensen’s Dachshund from Gin Gin; Claire Jensen nominated her dachshund Sid because he is hard working, loves the tractor and comes everywhere in the buggy with her.
48/53Sid: Claire Jensen’s Dachshund from Gin Gin; Claire Jensen nominated her dachshund Sid because he is hard working, loves the tractor and comes everywhere in the buggy with her.
Megsie and Jill: Kristen Fisher's Border collies from Hervey Bay;Working with cattle on their owner, Kristen Fisher’s farm in Hervey Bay, Megsie and Jill are a mother, daughter duo who share a lot of similarities in the personalities. “They’re extremely hard working, working until the sun goes down,” Ms Fisher said. “They’re passionate about working cattle and show so much excitement and joy when going to work and they’re also just lovely to be around, gentle and don’t mind lots of pats when the work is done. Megs in particular will try and steal a sip of your after work drink if you’re not careful and shows a cheeky personality playing with other dogs.”
49/53Megsie and Jill: Kristen Fisher's Border collies from Hervey Bay;Working with cattle on their owner, Kristen Fisher’s farm in Hervey Bay, Megsie and Jill are a mother, daughter duo who share a lot of similarities in the personalities. “They’re extremely hard working, working until the sun goes down,” Ms Fisher said. “They’re passionate about working cattle and show so much excitement and joy when going to work and they’re also just lovely to be around, gentle and don’t mind lots of pats when the work is done. Megs in particular will try and steal a sip of your after work drink if you’re not careful and shows a cheeky personality playing with other dogs.”
Bailea: Ashleigh Kate Cooper’s Kelpie from Hervey Bay;Bailea has been nominated by their owner, Ashleigh Kate Cooper for their effectiveness with retrieving tools. “Bailea is the best farm hand,” Ms Cooper said. ​
50/53Bailea: Ashleigh Kate Cooper’s Kelpie from Hervey Bay;Bailea has been nominated by their owner, Ashleigh Kate Cooper for their effectiveness with retrieving tools. “Bailea is the best farm hand,” Ms Cooper said. ​
Jack: Amy Farrell’s kelpie x from Burrum Heads;Now retired and living his best life with his owner Amy Farell in Burrum Heads, Jack used to round up cattle and herd them out on a station in Western Australia. “He would do bore runs in the ute and greet all of the guests,” Ms Farell said.
51/53Jack: Amy Farrell’s kelpie x from Burrum Heads;Now retired and living his best life with his owner Amy Farell in Burrum Heads, Jack used to round up cattle and herd them out on a station in Western Australia. “He would do bore runs in the ute and greet all of the guests,” Ms Farell said.
Billy: Kevin and Leigh Kurz’s kelpie from Tandur;Billy works as an allrounder at Kevin and Leigh Kurz’s Tandur property, where he helps with hunting, fishing, as well as general farm work or as well as hanging out with the kids. “He’s the best allrounder,” Leigh Davis said.
52/53Billy: Kevin and Leigh Kurz’s kelpie from Tandur;Billy works as an allrounder at Kevin and Leigh Kurz’s Tandur property, where he helps with hunting, fishing, as well as general farm work or as well as hanging out with the kids. “He’s the best allrounder,” Leigh Davis said.
King (Kasajoca King): Sam Connolly‘s farm dog from Koumal;Sam Connolly’s best mate and dilgent farm hand, King helps her shift cattle from paddock to paddock at her small property near Koumala. “He was my first dog I got when I came home from University.”As well as working as a farm hand, King has become “invaluable” for Ms Connolly when traning and educating weaners. “He’s pretty handy at dog trailling too,” she said. “We were fortunate to win the Qld and Australian dog of the year for the 2022/2023 season.”
53/53King (Kasajoca King): Sam Connolly‘s farm dog from Koumal;Sam Connolly’s best mate and dilgent farm hand, King helps her shift cattle from paddock to paddock at her small property near Koumala. “He was my first dog I got when I came home from University.”As well as working as a farm hand, King has become “invaluable” for Ms Connolly when traning and educating weaners. “He’s pretty handy at dog trailling too,” she said. “We were fortunate to win the Qld and Australian dog of the year for the 2022/2023 season.”
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