Introducing - Our Championship Show Judge
2025 Championship Specialty Show
Sunday 6th July 2025 - Durack QLD
Great Dane Breed Specialist Judge - Kathy Smith (Darkat Great Danes - VIC)
My first introduction to the Great Dane was at the Echuca show in Victoria back when I was only a child. There was a magnificent Great Dane laying on the grass like a Sphinx, so regal, proud, neck arched and looking carefree. A memory that stayed with me for many years until my first Great Dane purchase in 1991 from the Norsedane kennel in Victoria. Boz (Ch Norsedane Redmond) was a tall boy reaching every bit of 37 inches, coming down mostly from the Danelyne lines in SA, he was the sweetest dog and a pleasure to show. Needless to say after a few wins we were hooked.
Following the acquisition of Boz and countless hours of research I decided to purchase another Dane from the Amasa lines in NSW.
In 1994 I continued exhibiting Great Danes, breeding under the "Darkat" prefix with great success.
Breeding Best in Show & Specialty winners. My success at that time saw many of my Danes breaking records and winning at top level consistently.
Although I measure success as a breeder, not by the number of litters produced nor the number of wins in the show ring but by the quality and effort placed upon health, structure (conformation) and temperament. However, when it all comes together, a dog worthy is something to behold and worthy of being a showring winner.
My involvement in our beautiful breed has spanned over 30 years, with many highs a lows. My firsthand experiences allow me to appreciate the dedication that is applied by breeders to attain quality dogs.
I no longer have an involvement in our breed, but I do continue to judge which I thoroughly enjoy. I have judged in most States of Australia and both Islands in New Zealand. One of my first judging assignments was the Great Dane club of Victoria's Open show in October 2011. In 2013 the Great Dane Championship Specialty in NSW and August 2017 I judged for the Great Dane Club of New Zealand.
The last Great Dane I exhibited was bred by Swayd Great Danes, Sid (Sup Ch M/BISS M/BIS Swayed Fire When Ready) (pictured) . He was one of the most successful black male Great Danes to grace the showring. Also pictured is Grand Champion Darkat Achtung Baby (Babe) fawn and his litter sister Grand Champion Darkat Asti Riccadonna (Madonna).
I am sincerely honored to accept the appointment to judge the QLD Great Dane show 2025. I do not discriminate for those who wish to hold the ears up. Thank you for your support to your club and for your entries today.
Remember,...the best dog is the one that you take home.
Kathy Smith
Darkat Great Danes
Contact Details
Please make contact with Club Secretary; Victoria Lansbury
- Post: PO Box 304, ROSEWOOD Q 4340
- Email: [email protected]