We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Robbie de Jong to Australia as our Performance Judge for our 2026 WGSDCA Championship! Robbie de Jong, born 1972 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, hails from the charming town of Etten-Leur near Breda. With a four-decade-long journey, he has passionately immersed himself in the world of dog training and assistance, evolving from a helper to a formidable competitor. At the tender age of 9, he embarked on his canine journey, side by side with his father. His expertise lies primarily with the majestic German Shepherd Dogs (GSD), a breed that has been his constant companion and training partner. His noteworthy achievements include being selected as a helper for the prestigious WUSV 2004 in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. On the WUSV stage he also started as a competitor with two remarkable dogs – Orthan v Haus Valkenplatz and Glenn V Haus Valkenplatz. Notably, Robbie & Glenn secured the title of WUSV 2013 vice-champions in Philadelphia, USA. Glenn and he also clinched the coveted title of "Dutch Champion" twice. His involvement extends beyond the arena, as evidenced by his crucial role in the helper selection for WUSV 2017 in Tilburg. Proudly, he is a family man with two daughters, Chinouk and Luna, and shares his life and love for dogs with his wife, Catharina de Leeuw. Together, they devote themselves to the training their canine companions. In 2012, Robbie embarked on the journey of imparting knowledge by initiating judges seminars, subsequently becoming a seasoned judge with a record of overseeing at least 80 trials since 2014. Currently, his focus is on nurturing a young dog named Macho van 't Pioneersland, finding unparalleled joy in the training of this promising canine. Currently participating in competitions, his focus extends across various disciplines. However, his heart lies in obedience, especially when working with his own dog. As a judge, the intricacies of protection work hold a special place in his evaluation. Reflecting on the achievements of his dog, and his own in the realm of dog sports, he finds fulfillment in the journey, with no specific pinnacle standing out. Training sessions with his dog occur regularly, though the frequency varies based on his schedule. In the vast field of cynology, Robie draws inspiration from various figures, each contributing to his understanding and approach. As he anticipates the upcoming event, his expectations are open-ended, ready to embrace the unique experiences it holds. When asked about his heart dog, he recognizes Glenn vom Haus Valkenplatz as the epitome of companionship and excellence. The memories and victories they shared create an indelible mark on his canine journey. Reflecting on the competitions that left a lasting impact, judging the selection trials for the WUSV in Holland stands out. The intricate challenges presented in those trials were both demanding and rewarding. Additionally, overseeing the all-breed obedience in Holland added another layer to my judging experience.