History
Originally called The Qantas Kennel Club, The Sydney Kennel Club was formed in the early 1960’s under the stewardship of various members of Qantas Airways staff who had an interest in the sport of purebred dogs.
The secretary at the time was Mr. Alan Bruce and the club was used as a social club by Qantas staff members, as well as holding official meetings and conducting purebred dog shows. These latter activities were originally conducted on the grounds of The University of Sydney.
In 1970, Sir Hudson Fysh, then Chairman of Qantas, agreed to the membership of the club being opened to persons other than members of Qantas staff in order for the club to maintain sufficient membership.
At this time Mr. Alan Bruce continued as Secretary and the club welcomed Mr. Alan Carney, an officer of the National Bank of Australia as President.
In 1971, Sir Hudson Fysh agreed to The Qantas Kennel Club changing its name to The Sydney Kennel Club and that the assets of the club at that time, be transferred to the re-named club.
The venue for the large championship dog shows conducted in those early years was changed from The University of Sydney to Wentworth Park and then Randwick Racecourse, in order to accommodate the large numbers of dogs being exhibited in those years.
Over the years of the 1970’s and 1980’s the club was a regular sponsor and supporter of the Royal Children’s Hospital at Camperdown.
Today, the club has a flourishing membership and a hard-working and dedicated Committee of people who seek to provide the best platform for the thousands of people who participate in the sport of breeding and exhibiting purebred dogs.
The Sydney Kennel Club Inc holds two landmark shows each year.
A summer show, usually held in February and
An international winter show, usually held in August
These shows are now conducted at The Bill Spillstead Complex for Canine Affairs, located at Orchard Hills, Luddenham Road, on the outskirts of Sydney.