Trans Tasman Tests
 

Each series consists of 2 tests, and the country with the highest combined aggregate wins the Cup. 

Each team is made up of 4 competitors, with each country having a selection process to determine the team members. In Australia, the 2 best performing dogs from each of the 6 states compete against each other over 3 rounds, two of which are held on a Trans Tasman course. The 4 competitors with the top aggregate scores then become the Australian Test Team for the succeeding test series. The NZ Team is chosen from among the finalists at the North/South Island & NZ Championships.

The competition started in 1985 as a competition between New Zealand and Queensland. The Australian Sheepdog Workers' Association was formed in 1988, and from 1990 assumed responsibility for the Trans Tasman competition, holding this event at Deloraine in Tasmania in 1990.

The competition is conducted over a special course with its own rules, developed specifically for the Trans Tasman competition. It is a mix of both Australian and New Zealand rules. The Trans Tasman course consists of 4 obstacles - a gate, a Maltese cross, a ramp and a pen. Australian rules apply as far as the gate, followed by a NZ drive through the Maltese cross and over the ramp, then back into an Australian carry to the pen.  In the New Zealand sections competitors are allowed to assist their dog more than in the Australian section, thus showing their stockman-ship skills.

The course must be completed in 15 minutes. There are 2 judges, one from each country, whose scores are averaged.

Click here to download the Trans Tasman Rule Book

Click here to download the Trans Tasman Course Map

Previous Winners