Winona is one of the better known Kelpie Studs in the Central West of NSW. It is situated just outside the historic goldmining town of Gulgong near Mudgee.

In 1859, Mr. Nicholas Seis arrived from Germany, aged just 19. He first selected a small property at Uarbry and then in 1890 he selected a 1288 acre property he called 'Round Camp'. This property is still in the Seis family today. Ever since Nicholas Seis arrived the family has been involved with breeding sheep and cattle dogs. So the Seis family has been handling dogs for more than 100 years.

The Winona Kelpie Stud was set up in 1973 and is run by Colin Seis in conjunction with a Merino sheep Stud. The Stud was originally founded on the well known Wyreema bloodlines.

 

According to one of their advertising brochures; the aim of the Winona Kelpie Stud is to produce a good allround working dog, who is equally at home in the paddock or in the yards. Although not specifically bred as a trial dog, they have been used successfully in trials all over the State.

"A Winona Kelpie is a natural worker and brilliant handler of stock. The old saying 'Why own a dog and bark yourself' is true of Winona Kelpies. They will usually think for themselves and if you can help your dog rather than 'fight' their natural instincts, you will have a friend, a loyal worker and a 'good mate' who will stand by you though thick and thin." - Winona Basic Training Booklet

 

"Winona Kelpies are big, strong and untiring black & tan dogs with great natural ability. Although not show dogs, a lot of importance is placed on breeding a good type of dog which has good ability, good temperament and high intelligence. Pups are sold with a guarantee to work within 15 months .." - Winona Brochure 1980's