Our Story · Est. 1987
About Braecrest
A New Name. An Old Kennel.
Braecrest Irish Terriers carries forward the full legacy of Tawnyoak — one of Australia's most celebrated Irish Terrier kennels. Tawnyoak and Braecrest are one and the same: a change of prefix only, with the same people, the same dogs, and the same unwavering commitment to the breed.
For nearly 39 years, under the Tawnyoak banner, Pamela Gerrey of Wirrimah, NSW built a breeding programme admired by Irish Terrier enthusiasts across Australia and internationally. The kennel produced dogs that excelled across every discipline — conformation showing, obedience, lure coursing, trick dog, dancing with dogs, and above all, as devoted family companions.
Owners who received Tawnyoak dogs repeatedly praised Pam's knowledge, honesty, and the outstanding quality of her stock. Her name became synonymous with the breed in Australia.
Our Breeding Philosophy
At Braecrest, Irish Terriers are first and foremost family companions. We select for true breed temperament — the spirited, brave, trainable, and deeply loyal nature that defines the breed. Our dogs live as part of our family, raised in the country at Wirrimah.
We are committed to improving breed genetics and maintaining the Tawnyoak roots of exceptional temperament. Our breeding programme draws on carefully selected international bloodlines — from Sweden, Russia, Ireland, Hungary, and New Zealand — to ensure genetic depth and breed correctness for future generations.
Health & Integrity
All Braecrest / Tawnyoak Irish Terriers are DNA tested and cleared of Hereditary Footpad Hyperkeratosis (Irish Terrier Type) and Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis 8. We are a verified Dogs NSW registered breeder (Member No. 2000639190) and Dubbo Kennel Club member.
Braecrest is proudly independent, operating without external investment or financial backers. At the heart of Pam's values is a deep commitment to preserving and strengthening healthy Irish Terrier bloodlines.
As a result, many respected kennels breed from Tawnyoak or Braecrest lines, with numerous dogs going on to be successfully shown and awarded Champion titles.
If you are searching for the perfect Irish Terrier for your home and Pam does not have a suitable puppy available, she will gladly refer you to other trusted breeders who share the same ethics, integrity, and genuine love for the breed.
The Breeder · Est. 1987
Pamela Gerrey
Wirrimah, Hilltops NSW
Pam has been breeding and showing terriers for nearly four decades. Her passion for the Irish Terrier began about ten years into her showing career and has never wavered. She is widely regarded as one of Australia's foremost Irish Terrier breeders, with a reputation built on honesty, integrity, and an uncompromising commitment to the breed.
Born and raised in regional NSW, Pam's connection to animals and the land has always been central to her life. She began her journey in purebred dogs in the late 1980s, initially showing in other terrier breeds before the spirit and fire of the Irish Terrier captured her heart entirely.
Over nearly four decades, Pam has mentored countless new breeders and owners across Australia, freely sharing her knowledge of conformation, grooming, health, and the Irish Terrier's unique temperament. Many of her puppy owners describe her ongoing support as invaluable — she remains available long after the sale, answering questions and offering guidance for the life of each dog.
Pam has been actively involved with the Dubbo Kennel Club for many years. When not in the show ring, she can be found at her property in Wirrimah, surrounded by the terriers she loves.
At a Glance
Sporting & Competition Titles