Join us for a day of information sharing, skills building, and food on us! We have two days of these fantastic sessions that you can choose from, one on Monday 13 October, and one Tuesday 14 October.

Back for the second year, the day will kick off with a Farm Safety Information session. Arrive at 7.30am for an egg and bacon roll and coffee, then presentations will begin from 8am, where you can hear from a range of organisations, including:

Victoria Police
CFA
Victoria Farmers Federation (VFF)
NBN
EPA
City of Ballarat Animal Management Team
City of Ballarat Emergency Management Team

We'll finish this session with a half hour Q&A forum and will wrap up around 9.15am.

For those who would like to upskill your canine companions, the day will then continue on to a Working Dog Training workshop from 9.30am-4.30pm, run by Gary White from White’s Kelpie Stud. This workshop will teach you how to develop the natural instincts of you dogs through structured sessions for up to twelve handler‑and‑dog pairs, with plenty of room for spectators.

As there is only space for 12 participants each day, please only register with your dog for one of the workshops - you’re welcome to attend the other day as a spectator (without your dog).

A full schedule of the day will be emailed out after registration.

These sessions are organised by City of Ballarat and have been made possible by funding from State Government Victoria's Council Support Fund.

Frequently Asked Questions

As a participant with a working dog, what do I need to bring?

In addition to the items listed above, you might find it beneficial to have a short and long lead, and if you'd like to familiarise your dog with your own rake, you're welcome to bring your own leaf rake - we use these https://www.bunnings.com.au/44cm-plastic-leaf-rake_p3350684

As a spectator, what do I need to bring?

We always suggest you bring a hat and your own refillable water bottle. Given the time of year, perhaps a pair of gum boots might be advisable!

Do you have any tips you can give me about working dog school etiquette?

The one expectation is to be considerate of others - being considerate of the kind person that offered their property on the day by tidying up after your dog! Unsettled dogs can be disruptive to others, if this is your dog, be considerate by excusing yourself to pacify/relocate to minimise impact.