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?
Can I take a bus or a bike out to the park?
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, or get them interested in or get them interested in DockDog activities & Big Air, Exttreme Vertical or Speed Retrieve, if you are so inclined. 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 the Raptor's Conservatory Birds of Prey & Jungle Cat World shows, The West Coast Lumberjack Show, and the 1000 Island DockDogs, all favourites of kids and adults alike. Sheep Shearing demos, an arts and crafts fair, a new Mad Science 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. Even better, 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.
Can I take a bus or a bike to the park?
A: Yes! There is a free shuttle bus which leaves from Kingston Centre and Downtown Kingston, three times a day at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and returns four times beginning at 12 noon to each location. You can check out all Transit schedules on this website. Bicycles are also a common site on Highway 2 east as there are extended shoulders on both sides. There will be bike racks at the entrance gate where you can lock them up. Note: Please do not leave your bike in the racks without a lock. We are not responsible for lost or stolen bikes.
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. There is an interactive kids exhibit, blacksmithing demos, cabinetry and joinery demos, and this weekend only, admission is two for 1 with your trials bracelet. Its worth the visit!
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: This year we offer an expanded array of culinary delights, including the delicious samplings of the Olivea restaurant, Ribs and Pulled Beef, (Web Vivian's Ribs), sausages, hotdogs, fries etc, and new this year, Nana's Kettle Corn and Cotton Candy as well as a variety of baked goods supplied by the Sandhill Church Ladies Auxiliary. If none of that tickles your fancy feel free to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy noontime entertainment in the park or on the beach. This year the early birds to the trials can even get breakfast on site. We have lots of refreshments to beat the heat as well (non-alcoholic, of course).
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.
