News and updates

Dear Members,
As part of our commitment to greater transparency, accountability, and regular communication, we are pleased to share the key positive outcomes and initiatives discussed at our recent Board Meeting.

The Directors continue to work diligently across numerous organisational work streams and improvement initiatives. The forthcoming Strategic Plan will provide a clear framework to guide further work in the months ahead.

Board Action List
A formal Board Action List has been agreed to clearly track resolutions, responsibilities and timeframes. This will strengthen accountability and ensure continued progress on key priorities.

Organisational Knowledge Tree
We will shortly be inviting members to contribute to the development of an Organisation Knowledge Tree. This initiative is gathering member organisation skills and interests to support DOGS NSW in delivering future projects, implementing strategy and assisting in building a strong future for our membership and all hobbies. We are seeking to engage a group of members who are willing to participate to drive this initiative. Any member who expresses interest will be contacted regarding how you can be involved. DOGS NSW thanks you for your support, look out for an EOI for this process in the coming weeks if you wish to participate.

Coalition of the Willing – Volunteer Register
We are keen to also build a Volunteer register known as the Coalition of the Willing. We are a volunteer organisation and our past and future success as a business is due to our incredible members. This initiative will allow members to nominate their precious time to assist DOGS NSW at key events, special occasions and with working groups in the future. Our organisation is strongest when members actively contribute, of course this is a voluntary process and we would really value your involvement. Again, there will be an EOI in the coming weeks for you to tell us how you can participate.

Town Hall Meetings
Four Town Hall sessions will be scheduled this year to facilitate open communication between members and Directors. These forums will provide an opportunity for transparent discussion, feedback and collaborative problem-solving.

Strategic Planning Progress
The Strategic Planning Committee with the Board has now held its third Strategic Planning Workshop and is on track to deliver a comprehensive Strategic Plan for DOGS NSW on 5 March, when the Committee will consider endorsement of the Plan for presentation to the Board.
It has been inspiring to see the commitment and dedication of the team working diligently to bring this Plan together. The first Town Hall session will include a presentation of the Strategic Plan to members, outlining priorities and the roadmap ahead.

Board Calendar
Development of a Board Calendar is underway to ensure representation and active Director involvement at key events throughout the year. Visibility, engagement and support across our activities remain a priority.

Infrastructure Improvements – Orchard Hills
The Board approved the upgrade of the underground mains power supply at Orchard Hills. This important infrastructure investment will significantly improve power reliability particularly in Dogs Sports Performance areas and capacity across the site, supporting events and future growth.

Membership and Governance Improvements
Directors agreed improvements to junior membership fee structures and broader governance enhancements across several operational areas. These initiatives aim to strengthen sustainability, accessibility and best practice governance.

Looking Ahead
The collaboration and commitment shown during the meeting reflect the Board’s focus on modernising DOGS NSW, strengthening governance, and building a more inclusive organisation that supports all members—metropolitan, regional and remote. We will continue to share updates after each Board Meeting to keep members informed, engaged, and connected.

And of course, we look forward to celebrating together at the wonderful DOGS NSW Night of Nights – “DOTY, POTY and NOTY” – to be held on Saturday 28 February 2026. We encourage members to come along and enjoy what promises to be a fantastic evening of recognition and camaraderie.
Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue building a stronger and contemporary DOGS NSW.
From the President, Executive Team and DOGS NSW Board

4.2(a)  A Judge shall not:-

(vi) act as a handler of an exhibit or exhibit a dog in a Lure Coursing Meet or SprintDog^TM Trial at which he officiates as a Judge. (08/25)

 4.2(a)  A Judge shall not:-

(vi)  act as a handler of an exhibit or exhibit a dog in a SprintDog^TM Trial at which he officiates as a Judge. (10/25)

Dogs Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Emma Ford as the new Administrator and Company Secretary of the Australian National Kennel Council Ltd (ANKC).

In her current position as Head of Business Services and Governance at a not-for-profit organisation, Ms Ford brings extensive expertise in executive administration, governance, and stakeholder management. 

Commencing on Friday 20th February 2026, she will be based in Hobart, operating from an established home office.

Ms Ford will succeed the current Administrator, Ms Tracey Barry, who will retire effective 31 March 2026 after 23 years of dedicated service in the role.

Hugh Gent OAM
President

The National Breed Standards Coordination Group Chairperson, Marie Merchant has confirmed the Group has reviewed and agreed to a request from the National British Bulldog Council (Australia) to update the breed standard extension for this breed.

The Dogs Australia website has been updated accordingly. Please click here to view.

Click here for Information on the FCI World Challenge of Top Dogs 2026 and Invitation.

Click here for Information on the FCI World Challenge of Top Dogs 2026 Entry Form.

1.  a first set of changes effective from Jan. 1st, 2026.  The amended version of the regulations has been on our website for some months (https://www.fci.be/en/Shows-43.html)

2.  a second set of changes effective from Jan.1st, 2027, all related to the new class “Bred by Exhibitor”.  The amended version is now available on our website, too (https://www.fci.be/en/Shows-43.html).

In accordance with Items 7.5.7 and 7.5.8 of the October 2025 Dogs Australia Board meeting minutes, a separate Judges Contract has been created applicable for Australian & New Zealand Judges only, with page 4 pertaining to the Judging Declaration for Additional Breeds being removed.

These changes are effective immediately and the form (with and without the digital signature feature) can be accessed from the Dogs Australia website here. 

Dear Affiliates & Members,

Please find below links to AWAMO posters and information packages to assist you in organising a War Animal Day event on 24 February 2026.

Click here for the AWAMO War Animal Day Poster Template

Click here for the War Animal Day Cash Donation Box Label

Click here for the War Animal Day Event Information.

A Special book is available now for Christmas: DOGS OF WAR by (AWAMO) Australian War Animals Memorial Organisation Founder, Nigel Allsopp.

"These are the stories we rarely hear - the ones that stay with soldiers long after the war is over."

Published by Big Sky Publishing, this book tells of Guardians of the Battlefield. True Stories of Canine Loyalty and Bravery. 

Given that a quorum was not reached at last week’s Annual General Meeting for the Southern Region and the current committee have all resigned, another AGM will be held on Sunday 4th January 2026, at 2.00pm at the Rules Club Wagga Wagga, 188 Fernleigh Road & Glenfield Road, Glenfield Park, Wagga Wagga.

Nominations to be emailed to Neil Curwen: [email protected]