THIS year marks the 40th anniversary of the Ovens Valley Canine Club Inc. (OVCC).
The club owes its existence to the late Fran Bailey and a small group of like-minded, pure-breed dog lovers, who were fundamental in its initial set up and the driving force over the years.
In 1984, the club formed at the Myrtleford Showgrounds, then progressed to a little shed at the football ground.
Its facilities and training ground have progressed and are now located at the picturesque McNamara Reserve in Lewis Avenue, Myrtleford.
Small as it was then, the club became affiliated with 'Dogs Victoria', which meant it could conduct Pure Breed Conformation shows, obedience and agility trials, as well as dog training.
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In 1998 the club embraced and introduced more modern, motivational training methods and skills, such as the methods currently used to train service and assistance dogs.
It was the first and only club in the North East to do so.
Across the decades until today, the heart and values of the club have remained the same, being to welcome members of the community and their canine companions to come together weekly in a social and friendly environment to train their dogs to fit into their lives and environment.
"The OVCC is very much a community club," committee member, Carolyn Jerome said.
"I've been with them since 2017; I brought along my two-year old dog and started obedience and agility training.
"Now I assist the puppy school's chief trainer, Kathy Volkmer.
"The club is there for both our two-legged and four-legged friends to work together and get them out to socialise and enjoy each others' company."
To mark the 40 year milestone, the club will be holding a celebration at the McNamara Reserve this Sunday, October 13, from 10am to 12noon.
The OVCC training ground is located next to the tennis courts.
There will be a display by members and their dogs showing a variety of games and routines that take place at the weekly training sessions, followed by a light lunch and a celebratory cake (including suitable pet-friendly cake).
All members, past and present, as well as community members are encouraged to attend.
For further information regarding the club and in particular this event, contact Carolyn Jerome on 0429 770 287 and visit: http://www.ovensvalleycanineclub.com
