About us
My involvement in freestyle began in 1998 when the dog training school I was attending started a demo team that included some freestyle movements. The team performed at various fetes, festivals, dog shows, pet shop promotions, vet clinics, and also included a performance at Moomba and the Australian Open. Our last performance as a group was at the Old English Sheepdog National Show in 2002, after which the group disbanded.
As a qualified dog training instructor, I decided if there was enough interest I would start my own classes. To determine the level of interest, I decided to ask Carolyn Scott from the USA if she would consider coming to Australia to do a workshop. Carolyn was famous for her Grease routine with her wonderful dog Rookie (see her routine on our Videos page).
As a qualified dog training instructor, I decided if there was enough interest I would start my own classes. To determine the level of interest, I decided to ask Carolyn Scott from the USA if she would consider coming to Australia to do a workshop. Carolyn was famous for her Grease routine with her wonderful dog Rookie (see her routine on our Videos page).
Fortunately, she agreed, and in March 2005 Carolyn came to Australia. Carolyn was a great presenter, and was very well received. The workshop created enough interest in freestyle to enable classes to start. In June 2005 PAWS-2-TRAIN held its first freestyle class consisting of 3 handlers and dogs!
Gradually, our classes grew, and the aim of putting Melbourne on the freestyle map was unfolding. |
In January 2006, PAWS-2-Train became MELBOURNE CANINE FREESTYLE. In January 2009 the discipline was officially recognised in Australia, and competitions began in various States, with the first Victorian Trial being held in June 2010.
As well as being a qualified instructor in this discipline, I was the first registered Judge in Victoria, am the Victorian Representative for Dances with Dogs, and together with a small group created a platform for Trials to be held in Victoria.
Classes continue grow, with members achieving success in both the Australian Dances with Dogs Trials and the World Canine Freestyle Organisation (WCFO) video competitions.
As well as being a qualified instructor in this discipline, I was the first registered Judge in Victoria, am the Victorian Representative for Dances with Dogs, and together with a small group created a platform for Trials to be held in Victoria.
Classes continue grow, with members achieving success in both the Australian Dances with Dogs Trials and the World Canine Freestyle Organisation (WCFO) video competitions.
