“People don’t realise that behind the scenes, a mountain of work happens,” Grant West said.
“For someone prepared to volunteer their time for so many years is such a rare thing, especially in today’s world.
“She’s an example to us all, selflessly giving her time to a sporting club.”
Joy West first became involved in sheep dog trialling in the late 1950s at the Avoca club (now Tangowahine) in Northland with her father and uncles, the Ruddell brothers.
In 1963, she married husband Malcolm West, who was also a dog triallist, and became involved with the Hobson club, which was then based in Ōkahu.
West officially became secretary of the Hobson club in 1982, then secretary for the Northland Centre of the Sheep Dog Trial Association.
She served 24 years as Northland centre secretary, working alongside three presidents, Ellis Child, Tony Hargreaves and Merv Cameron.
Grant West said his mother was grateful for the hard-working, supportive presidents who always looked after her.
Joy West was acknowledged for her commitment to the sport in the early 1990s, when she was made a life member of the Northland Centre.
She held the position of championship secretary for two North Island and New Zealand Championships, which were held at the Bay of Islands club grounds at Ōhaeawai.
West was also secretary for four centre championships at Hobson, the most recent of which was held in March.
While Malcom West died 18 years ago, Joy West supported him when he judged at the highest level in New Zealand, being selected to judge the Zig Zag Hunt at both the South Island Championships in Te Anau, and New Zealand Championships in Blenheim.
She said it’s time to pass on the batton.
“It’s never been a chore, I’ve loved the people, the dog trial community and the friends I’ve made.
“Sheep dog trial people are good people.”
Jenny Ling is a senior journalist at the Northern Advocate. She has a special interest in covering human interest stories, along with finance, roading and social issues.
