Welcome to an event where the winner is ewe.
There will be those old enough to remember the 1990 advertisement at the time, and those whose attention it has found in more recent times, who know all about Naomi Watts turning down a date with Tom Cruise in preference of her mum’s lamb roast. We all know Aussies love their lamb. As it is the season for UGGS on your feet and a winter woolly keeping you warm, not to mention a good lamb roast, we welcome The Australian Sheep & Wool Show.
So come gather as some of the country’s most passionate lovers of food, fashion and fibres salute the sheep at what is the largest show of its type in the world. The numbers back it up. More than 2700 sheep (including 25+ breeds) will be joined by a 30,000-strong showing of attendees that includes 5000 farmers plus 350 stallholders across the weekend.
Here is our guide to the must see events of The Australian Sheep & Wool Show.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
Sheep competitions
The world’s best breeders of prime lamb and wool genetics come together as 3000 sheep from five states vie for champion ribbons for each breed at this national benchmark event.
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O’Sullivans Transport Central Victorian Yard Dog Championships
Decided over three rounds, competitors and their dogs begin their days on 100 points, with deductions made for misdemeanours. Marvel at the skills of these lovable working dogs.
Australian Wool Fashion Parades
Some of the world’s leading fashion houses are at the front of the line when it comes to Australian fibres and fleeces. This is a showcase of why.
Bendigo Festival of Lamb
Partnering with the Bendigo UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the Festival of Lamb includes demonstrations by local chefs and butchering displays. In conjunction with Ms Batterhams, Fleece to Feast is a matched food and wine event that will take place at Sanguine Estate Wines.
Woolcraft
The passion and skill of woolcrafters is on full display at this national and international competition that attracts over 300 exhibitors in 70 classes.
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Australian Fleece Competition
With more than 400 entries from 145 exhibitors, this is the largest full measured fleece competition in the world. Strength to Give will be the benefiting charity in 2024.
Women of Wool
Fun, friendships, and plenty of laughs are on the menu at the Women of Wool luncheon. And, of course, a fine two-course feed. Hosted by Catriona Rowntree, guests include Bendigo Bank’s Head of Social Purpose, Sharnie Curnow, and Ann Peacock.
Shearing
Who has the best shearing and wool handling skills in all the land? Before Sunday’s main event, Friday, July 19 will feature a shearing and wool handling training day.
The Australian Sheep & Wool Show takes place at the Prince of Wales Showgrounds, Bendigo from July 19-21. Further information is available through https://sheepshow.com/
