 y involvement in freestyle began about 8 years ago 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, and 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).
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.
I approached a friend of mine, Janice, to see if she was interested in joining me. In June 2005 PAWS-2-TRAIN held it’s first freestyle class consisting of 3 handlers and dogs! I am pleased to say, these three original members are still with us and still enjoying freestyle!
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.
Classes continue to grow, with members achieving success in the World Canine Freestyle Organisation (WCFO) video competitions.
 
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