Dalby to host Australian Supreme Sheep Dog Trials

THE country's best sheep dogs and their handlers will be put to the test in Dalby when the town hosts the Australian Supreme Sheep Dog Trials next year.

CHAMPIONS: Damian Bougoure, Colin Topp and Peter Mitchell with the winning Dalby Show dogs, Shilpa and Pirate. Picture: Michael Doyle

THE country's best sheep dogs and their handlers will be put to the test in Dalby when the town hosts the Australian Supreme Sheep Dog Trials next year.

The Dalby Show Society announced it would host the trials for the first time in the event's history and its organiser, Linda Mitchell, said the town was an obvious choice.

"Dalby is a very good venue, and has everything we need," Mrs Mitchell said.

"You have the two best (dogs) represented from each state plus anyone who wants to compete - there is usually 230 or 240."

The sheep dog trials at the Dalby Show have become the most participated trials in Queensland, with last month's show attracting an impressive 234 entrants.

Dalby Show Society treasurer Rob Parsons said discussions had been going on for months to bring the national trial to Dalby, and the society was excited to host the prestigious competition.

"Hosting this event will give us an opportunity to improve the facilities we already have at the showgrounds," Mr Parsons said.

"We already have made improvements in the lead-up to last month's show."

An official date has not yet been set for the event, but it is likely to be held in August or early September, 2019.