It all began with the ‘Observers Book of Dogs’! I had always been ‘dog mad’, nagging my parents endlessly until they gave in when I was around six, and Trixie came into my life. Trixie was my much loved beagle cross; she was a voracious eater of towels, socks, and Sunday joints, and I would walk miles with her across the beautiful Lincolnshire countryside.

I spent years as a child and teenager exploring books about dogs so I could find the right breed for me; I was also obsessed with wolves, and was looking for a very natural breed which had that ‘lupine’ quality! I came upon a picture of a Groenendael in the ‘Observers Book of Dogs’ and was captivated.

I was so fortunate that Paul and Lorna (Vanistica) allowed me to have Sofi, my first Belgian and my first show dog. Sofi – Vanistica In A Whirl - was so typical, with a super temperament, and was a great introduction to my beloved Belgian Shepherds, who have bought me so much joy.

I emigrated to Australia in 1994, and again was blessed that Paul and Lorna allowed Cador - Ch and Ob Ch Vanistica Kaleidoscope - to come out to me. A once in a life time dog, with a huge fan club, who I sadly lost in 2015 when he was thirteen.

Cador was followed by my beautiful Venice- Ch Domburg Top Class - and I am completely indebted to Linda (Domburg) for her wonderful support and generosity over the years. Venice has given me two beautiful AI litters out of the fabulous Ch Vegas van Moned, who have gone on to produce for other breeders in Australia.

Venice's Malinois grandaughter Reba also produced two litters of nine pups, two of which were Tervueren. Maui (Malinois) and Maisie (Tervueren) are both featured under ‘Other Belengere Beligians’.

I was heartbroken when Venice passed in 2022, at almost 17 years of age. My Belgians now left at home are Bali, Venice's daughter, Loki, great great great grandson of Venice, and Milan, my Groenendael boy. Most recently, Asia joined me from France and her style and temperament can only enhance the Malinois in Australia.

The future is bright at Belengere with a focus on beautiful temperaments and boundless health and vitality in my Belgians. In 2025 I was delighted to be able to collaborate with the fabulous Beljekali kennel, and welcomed the gorgeous Beljekali With an Xtra Shot (AI) into my home. Java is truly the most delightful jumping bean with such a super temperament. 

2025 saw Asias first super all round litter of pups to Maui, and 2026 will see an AI litter out of Asia and Winalmiks Sr male Fender, so looking forward to these pups!

A special thanks to my partner in canine crime Matthew O’Reilly, of Wimfari Belgian Shepherds, for co-loving and handling these two girls to perfection in the conformation ring.