The Casterton Kelpie Muster is a well-known event that celebrates the Australian Kelpie breed, known for their intelligence and loyalty. One of the highlights of the event is the kelpie high jump, where dogs like Bailey and his half-brother Cooper showcase their impressive jumping skills. Bailey, a retired 11-year-old, was recently inducted into the hall of fame for winning the high jump event three years in a row, while Cooper is on track to follow in his footsteps with two wins under his belt already.
Eagle, the owner of Bailey and Cooper, notes that the high jump event has seen a resurgence in recent years, with more people choosing kelpies as pets due to their loyal nature and the popularity of the film Red Dog. While the prize money for the event is modest, it is more about supporting local communities and giving the dogs a chance to have fun. Attendees like Eagle make a trip out of the weekend show, driving up a few days early to enjoy the festivities.
Karen Stephens, president of the Casterton Kelpie Association, emphasizes the importance of the event to the local community, as tourism numbers double over the weekend. The working dog auction, which has turned over $4 million in kelpie sales over the past 28 years, is a key highlight of the event. The auction has been instrumental in revitalizing Casterton after a downturn in the mid-90s, helping to put the town on the map as the birthplace of the kelpie breed.
The Australian Kelpie Centre, located in the heart of Casterton, showcases the history of the kelpie breed and its significance to the small town. The breed has been popular since its inception in 1871, bred from Scottish collies to help settlers manage livestock on new terrain. Over the years, demand for kelpies has surged, as farmers look for reliable working dogs to help on their farms. Some kelpie pups can sell for thousands of dollars, with one particularly talented dog fetching $36,200 in 2020.
Despite the high prices and demand for kelpies, owners like Tegan value the community and camaraderie that the Casterton Kelpie Muster provides. The event brings together kelpie enthusiasts from all over the world, with visitors from the UK, Japan, and the USA making the trip to experience the unique celebration of the breed. The friendly atmosphere and sense of belonging in Casterton make it a special experience for both participants and spectators alike, highlighting the enduring appeal of the Australian Kelpie breed and the strong sense of community that surrounds it.
