Nestled in the hills outside Scone, “Castleview” was home to Jim and Noreen Marshall, their livestock, racehorses, and Gunna Kelpie Stud, established in 1996. Alongside a second family-run property, it remained a hub for breeding and working versatile kelpies.
Jim’s journey began early, leaving school at 14 and heading bush. His first station role at Willandra near Hillston sparked a lifelong passion for working dogs, starting with a crossbred kelpie and growing into a capable team. Over 12 years at Moolbong Station, Jim rose to Overseer, developing hardy, all-round dogs suited to vast paddocks and capable of working both sheep and cattle, traits he valued throughout his life.
After time at Burrawong South and Koorawatha, drought led Jim and Noreen to Young, where they ran a service station. Though temporarily off the land, Jim kept his standout bitch Flo, “more than handy”, before retraining as a Meat Inspector and later returning to rural life in Scone.
It was here, in his mid-50s, that Jim entered his first yard dog trial at the Scone Gala Day, an experience he described as nerve-wracking but life-changing. Determined to improve, he invested in better bloodlines, including Karana Jedda and the influential Yakka Custard, forming the foundation of Gunna Kelpies.
Gunna dogs went on to prove themselves across yard, utility, cattle and three sheep trials, known for their versatility and toughness. Standouts included Gunna Mick, a winner across multiple disciplines, and Gunna Puddin, another top performer remembered fondly. Jim’s dogs and breeding program reached across Australia and internationally.
A passionate contributor to the sport, Jim competed in every Australian state (bar NT), judged widely, and helped establish and grow trials across NSW. He was also instrumental in advancing Utility Trialling within the NSW Yard Dog Association.
Jim credited much of his success to mentor Greg Prince and remained a strong advocate for learning from others. His advice to newcomers was simple: watch the best, buy well-bred pups, attend schools, listen, and ask questions.
Across decades in the sport, Jim bred, trained and supported the working dog community alongside Noreen, leaving a lasting legacy shaped by dedication, knowledge, and a deep love of good dogs.
Adapted from words by Patsy Trevor.
