THERE was no ticker tape parade through the Gippsland streets after her golden performance in the yards.
But Flash the kelpie didn't mind.as satisfied with a good pat from her owner, an extra-big feed and perhaps the freedom to gloat a little back at the kennels.
Flash and her owner, Neil Lynch, of Cooma, NSW, outclassed some challenging competition to win the open final of the East Gippsland Yard Dog Championships at Lindenow South on the weekend.
It was a nail-biting finish for the podium, with a tie for second place between Bob Haines, of Gruyere, near Melbourne, with Tess, and Mr Lynch, with Ali. Charlie Robertson, of Stratford, came a close third, with Digger.
Mr Lynch, who has been working dogs competitively for eight years, competes in 11 trials in NSW each year and attends only this one event in Victoria.
It is the first year he has won, having placed second and third in the past.
"I trial with four female dogs which is a bit unusual, as most people have a male or two in their pack, but I find the females are nice and clean to work with," Mr Lynch said.
East Gippsland Farm Dog Group secretary Norm Severs said the two-day event was watched by a keen group of spectators.
"Dog trials are becoming more popular as farmers seek dogs that can work stock calmly with low stress," Mr Severs said.
