| Show Secretary's Report on the 8th Collie National
The 8th Collie National was held at the Durack Showgrounds on Tuesday 9 th August. Judge: Mrs Stella Clark ( UK ). An excellent entry of 175 was achieved - comprising 41 Smooths and 134 Roughs. Entries were received from every State, including WA. One co-owner, Miranda Blake, travelled from the UK in order to accompany her Tasmanian partner to the event. Such an attendance undoubtedly ensured that this event was to be a National gathering in every sense of the word.
Qld lived up to its reputation of “beautiful one day, perfect the next” with ideal weather prevailing. Clear blue skies and a temperature of around 24 degrees ensured lovely outdoor conditions .
The grounds were immaculately presented and, combined with the many other facilities available, provided the perfect setting for a National event. Convenient parking, ample flat-grassed areas for grooming and preparation as well as plenty of ring-side seating, enabled both exhibitors and visitors alike to fully appreciate the day's judging.
The Canteen (organised by The Sheltie Club) opened early - providing breakfast and refreshments throughout the day. ‘The Judge and Distinguished Guests' Luncheon was catered for by Grant Braithwaite and his team of experienced helpers, who also catered for last year's Qld Dog of the Year Finals.
The Trophy Table was superb. Situated in the main function room it required a two-man removalist truck to re-locate from its place of storage to the Show grounds. The Club sincerely wishes to thank Pedigree, Plush Puppy and the numerous individuals who contributed so generously.
Equally impressive was the Dinner function commencing at 6.00pm after the completion of judging.
Keith Rose, his wife (Bev) and their team organised the function room, which looked spectacular with black tablecloths, gold candelabras and black and gold balloons. Throughout the evening, trophies were presented to the winners (by our Judge, Mrs Stella Clark), in the presence of the British Consul, Helen Horn. More than 105 guests attended the three-course meal which was accompanied with complimentary wine and punch.
I would particularly like to thank a special group of people, whose genuine interest in ensuring the success of the show resulted in the smooth running of our wonderful programme of events.
Graham Kerr Host & Liaison Officer / Web Master
Keith Rose Ring Steward / Hiring & Catering for ‘The Dinner'
Dorelle Baty Chief Writer / Treasurer
Brian Dowse Assistant Writer / White Board Co-ordinator / Voice Recorder Supervisor
Aileen Goller Manager for ‘The Shop'
Pam Carpenter Entry Convenor
Ray Carpenter Manager for ‘Wine & Cheese Table'
Bev Rose Co-organiser (with husband Keith) of ‘The Dinner'
Bert Headland Layout of Show Ring / General tasks (too many to list)
Gael Wilcock Layout of Trophy Table
Jane & Robert Armatys Multiple fund raising activities
Kaye Reeves Fund raiser / Organiser of the Seminar/Corroboree (Wed 10 th Aug)
Tim Thomas Club Secretary / My son
Although many of the above mentioned people do not exhibit Collies they ALSO worked tirelessly throughout the last two years, providing the support and physical help needed when preparing for such an event. Without their assistance this National would not have been the success it was.
Jane Thomas ( Show Secretary) |