Vale Jim Marshall
The Scone Horse Festival Committee acknowledges with deep sadness the passing of Jim Marshall, a much loved and deeply respected member of the Scone community whose contribution to the festival and the region spans more than four decades.
As the backbone of the festival’s Jack Johnston Memorial Gala Day for more than 40 years and a highly regarded cattle and sheep dog trialler, Jim helped grow the event into one of the festival’s most authentic and engaging highlights.
Jim’s connection to the Jack Johnston Memorial Gala Day stretches back to its very origins. In the 1980s, Jim was living on a property along the New England Highway, where his neighbour was Jack Johnston, the founder of the event. Already a skilled and passionate sheep dog trialler, Jim was invited by Jack to demonstrate his working dogs at the inaugural event, with the aim of inspiring younger generations and showcasing the value and capability of working dogs.
From that moment on, Jim became a constant presence, returning year after year and helping shape the event into the much-loved tradition it is today. Jim’s passion for working dogs and his deep knowledge of training, breeding and yard dog trials became a defining feature of the festival.
Through his involvement, he took great pride in bringing people together to share rural skills, deepen their understanding of agriculture and celebrate the working dog culture.
The welcoming, inclusive spirit that defines the Jack Johnston Memorial Gala Day today is, in many ways, a reflection of Jim himself. His quiet leadership, natural ability to connect with people and unwavering commitment ensured that generations of families and school children felt welcomed, included and able to experience our rural traditions.
Deeply respected for his work, Jim’s contribution to working dogs extended well beyond the festival as he generously supported and mentored countless people and groups across the Upper Hunter.
More than anything, Jim will be remembered as a gentleman, a genuine good bloke and friend to many.
The Scone Horse Festival Committee extends its heartfelt condolences to Jim’s wife Noreen and their family, and to all who knew and worked alongside him.
Jim’s legacy will live on through the Jack Johnston Memorial Gala Day and the many people, skills and traditions he helped nurture over more than four decades. We will honour his remarkable contribution throughout this year’s Festival and beyond, ensuring his impact continues to be felt across the community he helped shape.
The committee is deeply grateful to the volunteers who have already rallied behind the event to ensure the yard-dog trials continue in 2026. This continuation will stand as a fitting tribute to Jim and his lifelong commitment to the event he helped build.
Via the Scone Horse Festival Committee
