The team at Cobber were lucky enough to catch up with Western Australian ambassador James Carr while he, and wife Michelle, were over for the recent Melbourne Grand Prix. In honor of James’ visit for the Formula 1, we decided to put him through a Cobber fast 5.
Tell us about your property
I live on 100 acres with my wife Michelle and toddler Amarlia in Busselton, which is about 2.5 hours’ drive south of Perth where I run my working dog schools, and run about 600 head of sheep.
Tell us about your working dog schools
Our working dog schools usually consist of a 1hr one on one lesson, with anything from a full-on working dog to town dogs that require stimulation. During the lessons we set goals with everyone and from there we work on these goals and try to create a better working dog. We also run demonstrations at events to showcase Aussie working dogs, and the effect training can have on improving their skills.
How many dogs have you got?
In the kennel at the moment we have 17 working kelpies, plus a very cute litter of puppies; with 5 reds and 1 red and tan.
Funniest stories about one of your schools
I had a clinic with a lady once and she brought a corgie – I think they misunderstood what the clinic was for – its little legs couldn’t even catch lambs! But both dog and owner enjoyed the experience but certainly weren’t lining up for another lesson.
Something most people might not know about you
I was a professional golfer for many years, and was lucky enough to play against Tiger Woods at the Australian Masters in 2009.
You can follow along with James and his team for all things working dogs on their TikTok – @shimmydownskelpies
