After some lean years on "Cadogan", their 242-hectare sheep and cattle property between Bathurst and Orange, the Oxleys are enjoying top lamb prices and a resurgent cattle market. They set aside time to travel and compete with their dogs, with Hall, where they have camped in a caravan for a week, high on their agenda.

Mick Hudson from Eumungerie, north of Dubbo, won the open event with Jana, while Julie Birkett from Boorowa won the improver award with Gin. About 400 people attended the finals.

The Oxleys brought 12 dogs with them, including two pups who are learning the ropes of competition. One of their young male dogs, Jet, finished second in a maiden trial on Tuesday in the lead-up to the finals on Sunday. All the other dogs were eliminated, which has not dampened the Oxleys' enthusiasm – they enjoy watching their dogs competing with the best around the country. They have been returning to Hall for six years.

"It is the best trial, it has the most history, it has been going for something like 73 years," Mr Oxley said. "The Queen came once and opened it. Hall has the reputation, it is just a lovely setting out here and there are heaps of spectators.

"We have met lots and lots of wonderful people. The atmosphere is good and it is a bit of a break from doing sheep work."

They will compete at the upcoming NSW sheep dog trials at Molong, before heading to Rockley where they will run the district trials.