Bring Ralph home

Randolph Canis Lupus Familiaris, other wise simply known as "Ralph".

In a field featuring predominantly Kelpies, Collies and Heelers some of the greatest Australian sheep dog breeds of the time, came a relatively unknown New Zealand local "Ralph", a 12 week old Pup stood along side Alexander Marcus Direen – a Shearer from working class roots described by Australian shearing magazine as “barely a stripling”- Began their journey together to establish themselves into Hamilton & Mount Gambier Districts Crutching folk law.

It was soon obvious when Ralph pitched up to work for Direen in 2013 that he was a cut above the rest. "We were really lucky during that era," said Direen.

We had really, a lot of good quality young men and women that were working really well. So we knew when he came along, he was coming into a great environment and you could just see straight away that he was class.

He still had rough edges and he still had parts of his job, like anyone else, that were a work in progress. But you could never question his commitment or ability.

Known for his gentle and affectionate nature out of the pens and thunderous bark in the pen. Ralph has kept stock on the edge of their seats since his start in 2013. Even though Ralph is in his twilight years the 7-year-old hound is still giving Crutchers a full race day in day out.

Sure, it’s great to see Ralph working year after year, but in his last seasons, its become tough to watch his performances. Though he still pulls off his trademark bark with the same unwavering stare he’s not the same brute force of yesteryear's.

Now with aching hips and extended afternoon siestas Ralph longs to be a pet and a friend to Ted & Stan back home in Central Otago’s wind-whipped landscapes, vast open spaces and treeless vistas that give a sense of space and scale like no other region in the World.

Ralph’s contribution to Crutching can easily be measured by all those who take a paycheque from it. His abilities may be forgotten over time, and perhaps they will be surpassed too. But he will remain, for eternity, the perfect dog at the perfect time. That shall never be beaten.

Ralph was 'Crutchings first superstar.

But its time for his new chapter.