About Us
I am a country boy at heart, having grown up on a beef farm in South Gippsland, Victoria. My journey took me to Melbourne to study petrochemical engineering, but my true passion has always been with dog breeding and training. From a young age, I was involved in training dogs for Sheepdog and obedience trials—a lifelong passion that has been enriching for over three decades.
In the 1990s, I began my breeding journey with Kelpies, drawn to their intelligence, resilience, and versatility. This experience laid a solid foundation in understanding canine behavior and training nuances. By 2015, I expanded my breeding focus to include UK field Golden Retrievers. Their intelligence, trainability, and friendly nature made them a perfect fit. These dogs are not only smaller and more agile than their show-bred counterparts but are also incredibly beautiful, making them ideal for both competitive obedience and as family companions.
My engineering career has allowed me to travel extensively, broadening my perspective on various breeding techniques and training philosophies worldwide. Now, I am settled on an 82-acre property on the outskirts of Brisbane, which provides an ideal environment for raising these magnificent dogs.
I am also the proud owner of two UK field Golden Retrievers who are registered therapy dogs. These wonderful animals give back to the community through their volunteer work, providing comfort and support where it's needed most. Their contributions underline the deep connection and positive impact that well-trained dogs can have on society.
Competing remains a significant part of my life. I have achieved second place in national level competitions in both Sheepdog and Obedience Trials, and a notable second place at the Royal Queensland Show (The Ekka) in 2010. However, competing in Obedience Trials with my Golden Retrievers is where I find the most joy. The thrill of the competition, paired with the strong bond I share with my dogs, is incredibly fulfilling.
Breeding UK field Golden Retrievers is more than a hobby for me—it's a commitment to excellence and a continuation of a cherished legacy. Each litter is a new chapter in my ongoing story of passion, dedication, and love for these incredible dogs. This journey is not just about creating great dogs; it's about enhancing a breed known for its beauty, intelligence, and companionship, and contributing positively to the community through their therapeutic work.
My journey to UK Field Golden Retrievers
In 2010, I made a pivotal decision to focus exclusively on Field Golden Retrievers, shifting away from my previous involvement with show line Golden Retrievers. My experiences in the 2000s and a deepening interest in the breed's capabilities led me to explore more about these remarkable dogs. Through extensive research, I discovered that the UK field Golden Retriever's heightened intelligence and trainability made them ideal candidates for competitive obedience dog trials.
Despite the rarity of pure working line Field Golden Retrievers in Australia, I was determined to find the perfect strain to meet my high standards. After evaluating options across the US and Europe, I settled on a prestigious line from the UK—the renowned Holway lines. My journey into importing began with the arrival of a bitch in 2014 from these lines. Tragically, her time with me was cut short by an accident in 2015, a loss that was deeply felt.
Nevertheless, I remained committed to my vision and in 2017, imported Nessy from the distinguished Auchencloch lines in Scotland. Nessy exceeded all my expectations, affirming my belief in the potential of these dogs. Inspired by her success, I took an exciting step forward in my breeding program by starting to import semen in 2017 from two of the world's top sires, Echobrook Dexster and his son, Kertis.
This ongoing commitment to excellence in breeding Field Golden Retrievers is not just about maintaining superb bloodlines; it's about advancing the breed's legacy through careful, ethical breeding practices that emphasize health, intelligence, and temperament. My journey continues with great enthusiasm as we prepare for the next stages of our breeding program, promising a future as bright as the dogs themselves.
Why You Should Choose a UK Field Golden Retriever
At Activ Goldens, our passion for training transcends the thrill of competition. While winning trails is rewarding, the true delight comes from watching our dogs reach their full potential as the perfect family pet. Bred from a lineage of hunting and fieldwork, our UK field Golden Retrievers thrive on stimulating activities and the close bonds they form with their handlers. This engagement not only fulfills them but also enhances their happiness, allowing them to bring vigor and intelligence to every training session and display their exceptional abilities.
A standout in our lineup is Nessy, who embodies all that makes UK field Golden Retrievers extraordinary. Nessy's intelligence and loyalty are matched by her extraordinary gentleness, making her not just a capable competitor in obedience trials but also the perfect family pet. The privilege of owning a dog like Nessy is something we believe everyone should experience.
At Activ Goldens, we're committed to helping you find not just a pet, but a true family member who will bring joy, loyalty, and endless affection into your home. Nessy's example highlights why UK field Golden Retrievers are such ideal companions, seamlessly fitting into family life and consistently proving themselves as more than just pets—they are a central part of the family.
“Once you have had a WONDERFUL dog, a life without one, is a life diminished.”
Owner
Rhys ryan
The Farm - Beautiful walks with lovely billibongs, dog heaven...
