14th annual Shear Outback Hay Championship Yard Dog Trial

Alix McFarland, The Riverine Grazier

Adaminaby trialler Dean Incher has continued his success on the plains taking out top honours at the 14th annual Shear Outback Hay Championship Yard Dog Trial on Saturday with Hulk.

While Dean was placed in the Open event with Hulk in the past, his previous first place wins in 2019, 2022 and 2023 were with another of his top dogs Raffa, with whom he placed second this year.

Last year’s open winner Dale Thompson took out third place with Giles Creek Clay.

A capacity 60 Open/Improver entries and 90 Novice/Beginner entries travelled from as far as South Australia to be tested by TA Field Wyvern Station wethers.

Handlers and their dogs were met by a cool start and warmer, blustery conditions as the day progressed.

Trialling started the minute adequate daylight was available and presentations were made just prior to sunset.

Thank you to all of our competitors and congratulations to all of our winners.

A big thank you to judges Matt Sherwood (Open/Improver) and Ben Wade (Novice/ Beginner) who were impressed by both the standard of handling and sportsmanship.

An exciting evolution saw live streaming and electronic scoring introduced this year. Thank you to Danny Ruben for bringing your expertise to us and to those who commentated.

A big thank you also goes out to valuable sponsors, loyal supporters and hard working volunteers for contributing to another successful trial, and to the Hay Rodeo Club team for their yard work and delicious catering.

Full Results

This article appeared in The Riverine Grazier, 23 April 2025.