As the Sydney Dog Lovers Festival approaches, we’re excited to introduce one of the event’s special guests: Marlene Brewer from Muster Dogs. Marlene’s journey as a working dog trainer and her experience on the hit show Muster Dogs Season 3 have made her a standout ambassador for working dogs and rural life.

We caught up with Marlene to learn more about her story, her incredible Border Collie Hudson, and what she’ll be bringing to the festival this year.

For those who might be new to Muster Dogs, can you tell us a little about the show and your role in it?

Muster Dogs Season 3 gave viewers an intimate look at the unique traits of Australia’s two main livestock working breeds: Border Collies and Kelpies. Six participants each received 12-week-old pups — three Kelpies and three Border Collies — and trained them over the course of a year to muster livestock on farms. The show highlighted milestones set by experts and showcased the diversity of farming life across rural Australia. At the end, one dog was crowned the Champion Muster Dog 2025.

My role was to train my Border Collie, Hudson, through this journey, sharing the highs and lows of working dog training and life on the land.

What inspired you to take part in the series?

I wanted to shine a spotlight on women in agriculture and challenge the stereotype that farming is a male-dominated industry. Women are making waves in agriculture, and it’s important to show that. I also wanted to highlight how crucial well-trained working dogs are to livestock enterprises—they make managing stock easier and more efficient.

What was it like training Hudson to be a working dog in just 12 months with the journey filmed and shared nationally?

It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hudson was a big, bold, overachieving pup who wanted to do everything at once. Teaching him to slow down and build solid foundations was a challenge, but an extraordinary adventure. Having the whole journey filmed added a unique pressure but also allowed the public to connect with the work and the dogs.

How has life changed for you since the show aired?

Personally, everything has flipped! People come up to me all the time to chat about the show and Hudson, which has been wonderful. The exposure from Muster Dogs has led me to public speaking opportunities where I can talk about important issues in farming, especially the role of women and the value of working dogs. It’s been a privilege to bring more attention to our industry and the incredible family farms behind it.

Tell us more about Hudson — what makes him so special? 

Hudson is incredibly intelligent with a fantastic temperament. He pushed me to keep challenging him and refine the precision in his work. He’s a social butterfly, which has taught me a lot about myself along the way. His nature and drive make him truly special.

What key qualities do you look for in a great working dog?

Instinct is crucial, along with a strong work ethic and behavioral markers that show they’re built for the job. Good physical conformation and the ability to cover lots of ground are also important. These dogs need to be built for long, hard days of work.

How important is the bond between trainer and dog in working dog training?

It’s very important but must be balanced. You want a strong connection without making the dog overly dependent on you. Independence alongside connection is key for a successful working partnership.

What are some common misconceptions about working dogs?

There are quite a few myths, like:

• “You can train a pup by working them with another dog.” Actually, this bonds the pup to the other dog, not you, and any faults in the older dog can be passed on.

   

• “You can train them later if you don’t need them to work right away.” Early exposure and training are critical; waiting too long can stunt their instincts and confidence.

   

• “All Border Collies have ‘eye’ and all Kelpies ‘back’ sheep.” Working styles vary even within breeds depending on bloodlines, training, and temperament.

   

• “They’re great for city backyards if exercised a lot.” These dogs aren’t just high energy; they have high drive and need purposeful jobs, not just walks. Without mental stimulation, they can become destructive or anxious.

   

You’re presenting at the Sydney Dog Lovers Festival — what can fans expect?

You’ll get to meet Hudson, who has quite the fan base! We’ll be chatting about the show, signing books, and snapping photos. I’ll also be talking about the training journey and sharing what it took to get Hudson through that intense 12 months. While there won’t be live demos with sheep or ducks, I’ll be happy to share training tips and answer questions.

What excites you most about being part of the Festival?

It’s a real privilege to represent Muster Dogs and meet fans who are passionate about working dogs. It’s also a great opportunity to step off the farm and engage with the public — an experience Hudson’s journey has made possible.

Have you attended the Dog Lovers Festival before?

No, this will be my first time! I live nine hours away, so it’s a bit of a trek, but I’m grateful for the invitation and looking forward to seeing the scale of the festival.

What message do you hope to share with dog lovers attending your talk?

If you’re thinking of getting a puppy, make sure to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes temperament and health. Understand the time and attention a puppy needs, and pick one that suits your lifestyle.

How important is educating city dog owners about the working roots of some breeds?

It’s critical. Working dogs aren’t pets in the typical sense—they were bred for grit, problem-solving, and long hours of work. Without purposeful stimulation, they can develop anxiety or destructive behaviors. Educating owners sets them and their dogs up for success, helping raise dogs that are calm, confident, and happy.

What advice would you give to young people interested in working with dogs in rural areas?

Buy a well-bred, going or well-started dog to learn alongside. Understanding livestock is key to training working dogs from pups. Attend as many working dog clinics as possible to build your skills—it’s a lifelong learning journey.

What’s something people might not know about you or your dogs?

I have 11 dogs — including retirees and pups — and each one is incredibly valued. While Hudson is special and spends a lot of time with me, all my dogs are essential to running the farm. My Kelpie girl Fleur is like having five men on a job! They’re not just pets; they’re partners.

What’s your proudest moment as a dog trainer?

Appearing on Muster Dogs was huge because it let me bring my world into people’s homes. But every time I start a new pup and see their raw ability is a proud moment for me — shaping that potential is what I love most.

We can’t wait to see Marlene and Hudson at the Sydney Dog Lovers Festival 2025 — a perfect chance to celebrate the incredible bond between working dogs and their humans. Don’t Miss Your Chance to Meet her!

Marlene Brewer and Hudson will be appearing live at the Sydney Dog Lovers Festival 2025, sharing their incredible working dog journey and expertise.

📍 The Dome, ADVANCE™ Stage – Muster Dogs Live
🕧 12:15 PM on both days

Meet working dog legends, get your questions answered, and experience the passion behind these incredible animals.

🎟️ Grab your tickets now: Dog Lovers Festival Sydney 2025 Tickets