2026 MELBOURNE ROYAL SHOW – Gundog judge
2026 MELBOURNE ROYAL SHOW
Conformation Judging will commence on Friday, 25 September and conclude with General Specials on Saturday, 3 October.
Mr A Stepinski from Poland will be judging Irish Setters on Friday, 25 September 2026
MR ANDRZEJ STEPINSKI (POLAND)
Group 3 (Gundogs) and Group Specials
Andrzej has always had a deep interest in dogs, so the development of a passion for breeding, exhibiting and judging dogs was a natural progression.
Andrzej’s first show dog was a Polish Lowland Sheepdog in 1982. Whilst not breeding extensively, he produced 3 World Winners, 3 Specialty Winners, and successful dogs who were exported to other continents and countries. His most successful home bred dog was the sire of over 30 Champions in 7 countries.
Since 1990, Andrzej has bred and exhibited Golden Retrievers. His breeding program again has been limited, but the Oligarchia Kennel has produced more than 50 Champions in 9 countries which is no mean feat! Andrzej has also owned and exhibited Boxers and was Secretary of the Polish Boxer Club for 4 years, and President of the Retriever Club of Poland for 15 years.
Andrzej began his judging career in 1996. He judges FCI Groups 1,2,5,6,7,8 and 9. He has judged extensively across the globe. This includes many European Countries, World Dog Shows, European Dog Shows, National Winner Shows and Breed Specialties including Golden Retrievers, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, Australian Shepherds, American Akitas, Shiba Inu, Rottweilers, Schnauzers, Beagles and Pugs. Andrzej visited Australia once, some 7 years ago, to judge a Golden Retriever Specialty.
Testament to Andrzej’s commitment and standing, he is President of the Polish Kennel Club Judges Committee.
Andrzej is a passionate and experienced judge across many groups, with a deep passion for the sport of dogs. He is widely known for his excellent ring manner and consideration and respect for both exhibitors and the dogs who enter his ring.
Melbourne Royal is excited to welcome Andrzej back to Australia to judge at his first Australian All Breeds Show – Gundogs, his areas of passion and experience, and additional breeds. We are confident that exhibitors will enjoy showing under such a respected judge of his calibre.
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