A Tribute to Viney Jenkins, by Paul Little...
I was very saddened to learn that Viney Jenkins had passed away last Sunday, 30/05/2010, aged 95.
I first met Viney in 1960 when she was the secretary of the Cocker Spaniel Club, when I joined as a junior member. In those days Viney was in the teaching profession and later was principal of Box Hill and Ashwood High Schools.
Viney and her parents, Tom and Catherine Jenkins, started the famous Dolgelly Kennels at their home in Box Hill. Viney imported an orange and white Cocker from the famous “Of Ware” Kennels in England and in 1961 the dog known as “CH Mighty Rare of Ware” was best exhibit at the Royal Sydney Easter Show. This dog also became the Top Dog in the state of Victoria.
Over the years Viney continued to breed and show her beloved Cockers. Finally she wrote a book on the Cocker Spaniel, which became famous throughout the dog world, both in Australia and overseas. She also loved history and after many years went to England to see all the historical places of interest and also to see the Cocker Spaniel in its birthplace. Viney spoke often of her trip and the wonderful dogs she saw. She also imported a tri coloured dog CH STONEMILL DOLLAR EXPRESS affectionately known as “Russell”.
She often travelled to the Nationals with me and enjoyed every moment of it, seeing her friends and of course her Cockers. These trips often took much longer as we stopped many times on the way for cups of tea and to give the dogs some exercise. Sometimes I thought we would never get there.
Viney as well as being a life member of the Cocker Spaniel Club since 1963 and patron, was a life member of the K.C.C. (Dogs Victoria). Certainly a great achievement for a person dedicated to our wonderful breed.
It has been a great privilege to have known you Viney, and we shall all miss you very much.
On behalf of the Cocker Club committee and members, our sincere and deepest sympathy to family and friends.
Paul Little
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