Jock and Joyce Wyllie, sheep and beef farmers from Kaihoka Station, on the West Coast of Golden Bay, have been recognised as life members of the Tākaka Dog Trial Club, the club’s highest honour.
Jock first became involved in the club thanks to Bruce Morton, who worked on their farm. “I just gave it a go, although it wasn’t up to dog trial standard,” he recalls. More than 20 years later, dog trials have become a major part of his and Joyce’s lives.
The camaraderie and the challenge of improving are key reasons Jock keeps returning to trials. A lot is happening at once – “the dog, human, three sheep and a bit of luck,” he says. “The weather certainly plays a part, and the time of day plays a part too.” What he finds most difficult is when he makes mistakes and “you let your dog down.”
Reflecting on more than two decades in the sport, Jock says, “It’s been enjoyable all the way.” Trials have taken their whole family from Kaitaia in the far north to Greenvale in the Gore District, and “all the places in between”, as Jock travelled to National or Island Championships.
He recalls winter trial trips when their children were young — some days cold and wet, particularly in the south, where snow was sometimes part of the journey. The couple say that having their children learn through Correspondence School gave the family flexibility to travel together. School lessons went with them, and the journeys themselves offered valuable learning experiences across the country.
One stand-out dog for him was Will, a black Huntaway. “I’ve had a few good ones, but Will – I got 2nd in the South Island Champs with him,” he says. The couple currently have about ten farm dogs, four of which are active trial dogs.
Jock and Joyce were presented with life membership during the club’s 130th anniversary celebrations, held alongside the Marlborough and Nelson Centre Champs from 23–25 January 2026, which the club hosted.
“It’s a huge honour,” Jock says.
The distinction is rarely awarded and recognises Jock’s years of service as a past president of the club, being an active member during working bees and trail events, and also providing sheep for the for the Tākaka trials. The club now has just five life members, highlighting how rarely the honour is given.
Joyce was also recognised as a life member, but downplays the accolade. “I am really just the support person in the team here,” she says.
Looking back on the anniversary weekend, Jock says it “went very well – excellently.” He encourages anyone curious about the sport to take the first step: “Just get in touch with someone, come and have a look, or give it a go.”
For those who do, the Wyllies’ story is a reminder of where dog trialling can lead – more than 20 years of friendship, dogs, trips and adventure.
Anyone keen to know more can contact Joyce Wyllie on 027 671 2221 or Scott Archbold on 021 140 3917.
