Twenty five local dogs attended the annual bark up at Chatto Creek Tavern, with strong pups performing “deep barks” despite the distraction of being in the crowded pub.

The event (on Friday August 26) attracted people from across Central, including newcomers to the district, and a film crew from TV3’s The Project.

Olivia Caldwell from The Project with publican Fiona Sutherland’s dog Daisy. PHOTO: Jenny Grimmett

Founded by Mike Duncan, the bark up has been a calendar fixture for the past 40 years and is a great way to get people together.

Judges Elliot Heckler, John Waldron and Bill Hincy have been judging for 15 years. 

They said they’re looking for a “deep bark” and a “dog that ignores the noise of the crowd”.  

Master of ceremonies Arthur Samuel in his iconic white jacket with bowtie and judge John Waldron. PHOTO: Central App

New arrival to Alexandra Karen Thompson entered with her dog Boss, and enjoyed the evening.

"We had a great time at the bark up and Boss did [so] good and barked up a storm."

Karen and Boss, who is the ‘boss’ at barking on command. PHOTO: Central App

The film crew did a mock bark up prior to the event and our very own Central App pooches Skyhe and Zayne enjoyed the attention (but did not bark).

Putting their best paws forward… Skye and Zayne were filmed by TV3. PHOTO: Central App

There was a bit to organise with dogs and children in attendance and also the not-so-glamorous task of ‘accident clean up’, nevertheless the event was well attended and plenty of pats are due to the dogs and the hosts.

Chatto Creek publican Fiona, also carrying out the role of pooper scooper during the bark up. PHOTO: Central App