Muster Dogs: Moments behind the best shots of the show (and book)
Aussies can’t get enough of Muster Dogs. Ahead of a new book about the loveable TV pups, the woman behind it shares her photo album – and the tales behind her favourite shots.
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Capturing the incredible pups from each season of ABC TV’s beloved Muster Dogs has been an absolute joy – and being able to freeze those unique moments on the land through powerful photos is something I truly value.
Sharing the stories of graziers and their working dogs is so important to understanding Australia’s regional life. When I found out that my photos were going to be published in a book, it was no easy task narrowing down the thousands of shots I’ve taken.
The book, Muster Dogs: Mischief and Mateship, is a celebration of these dogs and their journeys from puppy to professional. I hope reading it brings you the same joy that I got from creating it.
These are some of my favourite moments:
1. After a big morning walk, Season Three pup Chief was exhausted, managing to catch a quick nap curled up at grazier Carolyn Hudson’s feet while the camera crew filmed her interview for the show. Season Three is scheduled for next year, after a Where Are They Now special in December.
2. Kelpie pup Buffer was full of energy this morning, making it quite the challenge to capture this photo. I was lucky to snap it just in time before he went off to play with his siblings.
3. Season Two firecracker Indi showed no fear the first time she worked sheep. I managed to capture this incredible moment of her facing up to one, which shows so much bravery for such a young pup.
4. Season Three pup Pesto blew everyone away with her beautiful natural work and compassion for her livestock. When I saw Pesto again at six months old, she was a very busy and fizzy pup, giving Jack a run for his money. He tried and failed to keep her calm while I tried to take photos of them together. But when he put her on the chooks in the house yard, she transformed into a completely different dog, calmly herding the chooks with the expertise of a much older dog.
5. This spectacular shot speaks for itself: Season Three participant Nathan walking cattle on horseback with his team of dogs, set against the stunning backdrop of lush green grass, and vibrant blue water. The way the cattle trail through the water, creates a mesmerising pattern that really draws the eye. I feel privileged to capture not just this moment, but the beauty of the incredible landscapes and country that make these stories so special.
6. A stunning shot of Season Two participant Cilla with some of her team, including Ash Barky. I love this moment in the delightful landscape of Cilla’s property. She’s sharing a laugh with her pooches, highlighting their beautiful bond.
7. Season Three pup Banksi gets up close and personal with a lamb during his first look at sheep. From the start, this kelpie pup showed incredible instinct and drive. While he might be a handful for the participant who ended up with him, with the right guidance and effort, they could end up with an exceptional working dog.
8. A favourite photo from 2017: I captured my dogs Korra and Magic sharing a sweet moment as the sun set.
9. I just love this shot, but who doesn’t love a silhouette? I captured this at sunset in Bothwell, Tassie, where Season Two participant Russ and his Collie pup Molly were making the most of the final hours of daylight as they trained with their mob of Merino wethers. The stunning light and peaceful setting made this moment truly special.
10. This shot of Mick Hudson and his champion trial-winning dog, Rabbit, shows the true bond between a working dog and its handler. It shows the moment shared after the gate is closed, the praise from the handler, and the look of pride and love from a job well done.
11. Another favourite of my dogs from 2018, Kelpie Steve and his mother, Kelly, working together and moving in sync as they helped me educate weaners. This shot shows the role that older dogs play in the team and the skills and experiences they provide to younger upcoming dogs in a working dog team.
12. A bond between a boy and his dog. Season Three participant Nathan and Chief were spending an afternoon off from training and school. The pair spent some quality time together on a paddleboard in the water, and let me tell you, their connection was as strong as I’ve ever seen. It was such a fun, relaxed moment to capture.
Muster Dogs: Mischief and Mateshipwill be published by HarperCollins on December 4.
Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now premieres on Sunday December 1 on ABC.
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