Photography Competition

Entries now closed

Kelpie Muster Photography Competition

Sponsored by Fox & Lillie Rural

The Australian Kelpie Muster Photography Competition celebrates the working Kelpie in all its forms
— on the land, in the community, and through the lens of those who know the breed best.

From honest working moments to playful scenes, portraits, and creative interpretations,
the competition invites photographers to capture the character,
value, and place of the Kelpie in Australian life.

Proudly sponsored by Fox & Lillie Rural,
a long-time supporter of this competition and the Australian Kelpie Muster,
this competition continues to recognise the stories behind the breed and the people who work alongside them.

With categories for established photographers, local entrants, and young photographers,
the competition offers a platform to share images that reflect both tradition and new perspectives.

In 2026 the Casterton Kelpie Association has changed the competition status
from ‘FREE‘ to ‘COST‘ however to keep this at a minimum,
each form submission costs $5, payable at the time of entry.
Entrants may submit more than five photos,
however each new batch requires a separate form and fee submission.
All entries must be submitted online via the official entry form.
Entries are only valid once payment has been completed.

Please read the terms and conditions before entering.

Entries are open across the following categories:

NEW SECTION 2026

The Casterton Kelpie Association is embracing the
digital age with the 2026 specialty theme of:

Not just what is — but what could be. Made with AI.

KELPIE REIMAGINED

A creative category exploring new ways to represent the Kelpie.
Entries may include AI-generated images,
digitally enhanced photographs, or composite works.

This category invites interpretation
— from subtle edits to fully constructed scenes
— while maintaining a connection to the working dog story.

Entries will be judged on concept, creativity,
and storytelling rather than realism.

Entrants are asked to declare their method
(AI-generated, enhanced photograph, or composite).

NEW
AWARD CATEGORIES
2026

LOCAL LENS AWARD

Recognising images captured within our region, by locals.

This award is open to photographers who reside within the Glenelg Shire
and celebrates local stories, landscapes, and connections to the working Kelpie.

YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHER AWARD

Supporting the next generation behind the lens. 

Open to photographers under 18 years of age as at 6 June,
this award encourages young entrants to capture their perspective of the Kelpie.

KELPIE – BUILT TO WORK

(Previously Kelpie at Work)
The core of the competition.
Show the Kelpie in its working role — on stock, in yards, or out on the land.
Images should reflect instinct, control, and the practical partnership between dog and handler.

KELPIE AT PLAY 

Not every moment is work.
Capture the lighter side of the Kelpie
— movement, energy, and downtime away from stock.

CHARACTER OF THE KELPIE 

(Previously Kelpie Portrait)
A study of the dog itself.
Close-up or portrait-style images that show expression, focus,
and personality — whether at rest or alert to the task ahead.

KELPIE NEXT GENERATION

(Previously Kelpie Pup/Puppies)
Focus on the future of the Kelpie breed,
images must include pups or young kelpies under 6 months
that are in the early stages of training.

KELPIE GOES TO TOWN

From ute trays to main streets, this category explores the Kelpie beyond the paddock.
Capture moments where working dogs intersect with everyday community life — Kelpie muster, local events, town settings, travel, or unexpected places.

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION CONVENOR

Contact: Beryl
Click here to email photo competition convenor
Important Dates:
10 April Entries Open
17 May Entries Close
6 June confirmation of successful entries