Overview

Join them for the 83rd National Sheep Dog Trial Championships.

Experience one of Australia's most skilful and time-honoured rural sports as the nation's top working dogs and handlers compete for the ultimate title.

Held over the Canberra Day long weekend, the Championships bring competitors from every state to Hall Showground for a week of precision, partnership and edge-of-your-seat action. Each run features one handler, one dog and three sheep navigating a challenging course of narrow races and obstacles — all against the clock. With a perfect score of 100 points on the line, the goal is to guide the sheep calmly into the final pen. As the gate swings shut, the crowd holds its breath… then bursts into applause.

Sheep dog trialling dates back to the 1800s and remains a proud part of Australia's rural heritage. These incredible dogs are vital on farms across the country, and this event celebrates the remarkable bond between handler and dog.

First held more than 80 years ago as a fundraiser for returned soldiers, the Championships are now Australia's premier sheep dog trial and a much-loved annual gathering.

Come and see these amazing working dogs in action.