Shilnavogie Sheep Dog Trial raises £1,502.50 for Air Ambulance NI

The Silnavogie Sheepdog Trial organisers and committee presenting a cheque to Air Ambulance NI

The annual Shilnavogie Sheep Dog Trial once again united competitors, families, and supporters on Saturday 13 September, raising an impressive £1,502.50 for Air Ambulance NI.

Held at the farm of Mr John Davison in Shilnavogie, the friendly, strictly amateur event drew 25 competitors and their highly trained dogs for a day focused on skill, participation, and community spirit.

Despite a single heavy downpour, the weather remained largely favourable, allowing handlers and spectators to enjoy a lively and entertaining competition.

Judging on the day was carried out by Michael McAllister, with Donal McAllister serving as timekeeper.

The committee also extended thanks to the volunteers who provided refreshments throughout the event and to the many attendees whose support helped ensure another successful year.

A number of local businesses and individuals provided sponsorship, including Logan Whistles, David Hamilton Agri Buildings, W. Hamill & Sons, Oldstone Vets, Gerry Magill, Gordon Crooks, Joe Maybin, Fane Valley, Moores Animal Feeds, Cleggan Estate, and McCurdy Fuels.

This year’s total includes an additional £100 donation from the Mid-Antrim Motor Club Off-Road Section, contributing to the overall sum presented to Air Ambulance NI — a charity that provides critical, life-saving interventions to seriously ill or injured patients across Northern Ireland.

Offering her thanks, Katrina Hughes, Area Fundraising Manager for Air Ambulance NI, said:

“We are so thankful to everyone involved in the Shilnavogie Sheep Dog Trial for their incredible generosity and continued support. The funds raised will help the medical team deliver emergency medical interventions to patients before they reach hospital, 365 days a year. Community events like this truly make a life-saving difference.”

Air Ambulance NI operates in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) to deliver the region’s Helicopter Emergency Medical Service, responding to emergencies on average twice a day.

The service requires £8,200 per day to remain operational, relying heavily on fundraising and public support.

The committee behind the Shilnavogie Sheep Dog Trial expressed their appreciation to all competitors, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to another successful event, helping to raise essential funds for a charity that continues to play a vital role in emergency care across Northern Ireland.