Run under the auspices of the NSW Sheepdog Workers Incorporated, the Henty trial attracts the cream of the nation’s competition dogs and their handlers each year.

In 2022, the competition featured $4000 in prize money plus trophies and ribbons, with about 100 top class dogs competing from most states.

The event is limited to an open trial, with no encourage or novice classes, and handlers enter their best four dogs.

It is a three-sheep field trial requiring the dogs to move the sheep around a designed course.

The dog begins by casting around the sheep, bringing them back to the worker (handler).

The dog and worker then move around a marked course through obstacles of a race and bridge before penning them within a 15 minute time limit.

The pair begins with 100 points, with points deducted by the judge for faults.

The Murray Valley Yard Dog championships are also run in conjunction with the Henty Machinery Field Days.

The yard dog and three-sheep field trials are among the most popular attractions at Henty.