THE 2023 Australian Sheep and Wool Show promises to be much more than an agricultural event – it will be a huge celebration two years back after Covid delays.
Thousands of farmers, traders and members of the public will converge on the Prince of Wales Showgrounds in Bendigo from July 14 to 16 to celebrate the best quality sheep genetics, discover the latest innovations and showcase the industry’s important and diverse contribution to everyday life.
Australian Sheep Breeders Association chief executive officer Margot Falconer said the Show had attracted strong interest from exhibitors across the nation, as sheep breeders and the public yearn to return to an event they love so very much.
“This year, we have a sellout in trade sites, we are full – there is virtually no space left anywhere,” she said.
The feature breed is the Poll Dorset – the most popular of the meat breeds in Australia having demonstrated its capabilities under a wide range of environmental conditions.
It is the 23rd year the show has been in Bendigo.
Ms Falconer said it had evolved into an event not just showcasing the nations top sheep breeds but offering a colourful carnival atmosphere.
The Australian Fleece Competition and judging to determine champions including the Supreme Prime Lamb, Supreme Long Wool, Merino National Pairs headline the showring schedule.
Other highlights including Woolcraft, shearing and wool handling competitions, twice-daily fashion parades, Women of Wool lunch with guest speaker Jane Bunn and more to be announced.
The main arena will again feature the most activity featuring yard dog trials, an animal nursery, the Careers and Technology centre and various stallholders in the Country Living and Lifestyle/Festival of Lamb and The Oval shopping pavilions.
Together with more vendors in the Osborne and Noble pavilions and boutique stalls in the Woolcraft sheds, they form Australia’s largest fibre market.
Visitors to the Show can plan their itinerary with the help of the Sheep and Wool Show app, while those unable to make it in person can watch the ram sale and some sheep judging via live streaming.