A GROUP of Limestone Coast children aged five to 15 had a special day out earlier last week when they took part in Wagging School.
The event – hosted by Liz Rymill and GoGetta Kelpies’ Joe Spicer – had 15 foster and at-risk children spend the day as “dog trainers” to learn a little about what life is like on the land.
Held at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds and funded by Stand Like Stone, multi-national yard dog trial champion trainer Mr Spicer showed the children how his dogs work sheep and ducks.
The group saw first-hand how the highly-responsive kelpies manoeuvred the animals around obstacles, through pens and races and heard expert tips on training the iconic Australian sheep dogs.
Mr Spicer also took a litter of pups for the children to cuddle and try training.
“It was wonderful to see the children engage with the kelpies and learn about the dogs, as well as farming in the region,” Ms Rymill said.
“When the Indian runner ducks came out, the kids had a go at trying to be dogs themselves and herding them through a gateway – not as easy as you would think.
“We had a lot of questions and everyone had a go at training a pup or herding a duck.
“We aimed to give hope and joy to children in need, as well as saying thank you from the broader farming community to the wonderful carers of ac.care.”
Each child also took home a plush kelpie toy dog and a bag of information about the dogs, on careers in farming and scholarships from Stand Like Stone Foundation.
South East farmer Lucy McCourt-Pearce also spoke on how working with kelpies has helped her, especially during her battle with cancer at a young age.
“We hope we have planted a seed,” Ms Rymill said.
“Perhaps one day the kids might pursue a career in agriculture or with working dogs.
“We also want them to know their community values and supports them.”
