Sheep Dog Trials Questions & Answers
Below are answers to the questions most-frequently asked by people planning to attend the Kingston Sheep Dog Trials.
QUESTIONS
Can I bring my dog with me to the trials?
Can I bring my kids with me to the trials?
What time do the trials get underway?
Where is Grass Creek Park located?
Is there anything else to do at Grass Creek Park?
Can I buy my lunch or dinner on site?
How much does it cost to get in?
Do I have to pay the admission to the park, just to go for a swim?
If I need to contact the park for any reason, is there a phone out there?
ANSWERS
Can I bring my dog with me to the trials?
A: Yes, by all means. Pets are welcome as long as they are on a leash, are comfortable around people, and other pets, and are not barkers (this disturbs the competing dogs). We welcome dogs, and you can even attend a short session on how to train your dog for trialling. See the schedule of activities or the trials program for times.
Can I bring my kids with me to the trials?
A: You sure can! Besides the trials, there are all kinds of things for kids of all ages. We have a variety of family-friendly attractions, favourites of kids and adults alike. Sheep Shearing demos, an arts and crafts fair, an interactive kids area, pony rides, a petting zoo, and a sandy beach and swim area make this event one that truly has something for everyone. Kids 10 and under are admitted free.
What time do the trials get underway?
A: The trials themselves start at 8 a.m. and run until approximately 6 p.m. daily. Some concessions are open all day, the craft show is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the other side attractions take place at intervals during the day. Please refer to the schedule of activities on this Web site for a full program of activities.
Where is Grass Creek Park located?
A: From Highway 401 east or west, take exit 623 at Joyceville Road. Follow Joyceville Road south to Hwy 2, and turn left on Hwy 2. drive 1 km east and turn left into the park at the MacLachlan Woodworking Museum.
Is there anything else to do at Grass Creek Park?
A: Yes. Besides all the things mentioned above, you can visit the MacLachlan Woodworking Museum which is on site at the park, and features interactive displays and exhibits about Woodworking and pioneer life in early years.
A: Yes. You can buy Trials pins, cloth bags and T-shirts designed by local artist Michael Walker at the hospitality tent on site. You will also get a commemorative program with your paid admission, you can purchase items at the craft and artisans tent, and other organizations will have items of interest to tourists and residents alike.
Can I buy my lunch or dinner on site?
A: There are vendors on-site offering a variety of food choices or feel free to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy noontime entertainment in the park or on the beach.
How much does it cost to get in?
A: Cost is $10 a day or $25 for a three day pass. Kids 10 and under are free. You will receive a bracelet at the gate which must be worn to gain entrance to the trials. The Pony Rides do have a nominal cost — $3 per loop or $5 for two loops. The only other thing you have to pay for is your food (if you choose not to bring a picnic lunch), and any spending money you might want for the craft area.
Do I have to pay the admission to the park, just to go for a swim?
A: Yes. Although the beach is intended for public use year round, the city books the entire park for the trials, for this one weekend each year. No one is admitted to the park without paying the required admission price, but just look at all the things you can do besides having a swim. Its well worth the price of admission. Please note that the boat ramp is closed from August 6 to 9.
If I need to contact the park for any reason, is there a phone out there?
A: No, but in an emergency, you can call the Recreation and Leisure Services office at 613-546-4291, ext. 1700, and they can relay a message to one of the staff or volunteers at the trials. Someone will get back to you as quickly as possible. Bear in mind that it is a busy place for the those three days, so please be patient.
