Dog Lovers Canine Race

We initially read this as a ‘nude’ dog race which appeared oddly enough to blog about. With a second look, the Great Nundle Dog Race was still worthy of writing about. Taking place on Sunday, 1^st May, this annual event takes place on the Nundle Recreation Ground and for more than 20 years, has expanded their entertainment programme, now attracting over 1000 visitors each year. 

 

Two decades ago, it comprised a race between working dogs owned by two local cockles attracting locals. Today, the extensive event now includes jumping castles and face painting…for adults, not four legged pals. Along with food stalls, local merchandise and bringing together the community of all ages, this is an event not to be missed. You can cheer (or bark) on canines in novelty races that include high jumps, best dressed best friend and the doggy derby. Designed for working dogs, we can only hope these four paw entrants will keep their pads firmly on the winning line, unlike some dogs we know that have the attention span of a goldfish.

As a great fundraiser event for the Nundle Public School Parents & Citizen Association (P&C), it attracts families and their BFF’s from as far as Sydney and North Coast. Primarily because it’s literally barking mad and tons of fun to watch. 

Originating in 1979, two farmers waged a bet about whose dog was fastest. From a few screams, rants and gallops, the foundation for the event was laid. The farmers took this pursuit further and as members of the P&C Association, 20 years later, it officially became an annual fixture attraction.

Even though the main races are for working dogs, if you have a well trained companion, you can enter them into the Stumpy’s Circular Dog Derby or bring them down to sniff other attending furry friends. Watching the main events are a hoot though. Some gallop off to chase friends, other spin in circles and the ones that actually keep focused and sprint in the right direction, have a chance of winning the main prize. Look out for the Steeplechase event, a large crowd pleaser where dogs bounce over bales of hay, focus on getting filthy and having a rare ole time without parental supervision.

Remember to book your accommodation at Cremorne Point and while you’re staying at Cremorne Point Manor, let us know if you’ll be spending the night (caravanning or camping) at Nundle. We’re a good near 5 hours away from the event location but the scenic drive will be so worth it. Also note that if you’re visiting NSW with your dog, our nearby sister hotel, Glenferrie Lodge is pet friendly. With a stunning, private garden, you can spend a few days after Nundle to train Fido with a few tricks you learned at the event, at our Lodge. Or maybe start with sit, stay and don’t chew slippers. Puppy steps…