23 JULY 2025 | ISSUE 577 | FREE
GOULBURN RIVER & RANGES
Crowds Flock to the Australian
Sheep and Wool Show
Last weekend, the Bendigo Showgrounds came alive as thousands of people poured in to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Australian Sheep & Wool Show, the largest event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. From seasoned breeders to first-time visitors, crowds from across the country gathered to witness a spectacular showcase of livestock, wool, innovation, and rural pride.
For many locals, including a strong contingent from Nagambie and the wider Goulburn Valley, the event wasn’t just a weekend attraction, it was a celebration of a way of life. The show offered something for everyone: cutting-edge ag-tech displays, delicious local produce, world-class wool fashion, and of course, the country’s best rams and fleeces on proud display. Attendees were treated to a unique blend of tradition and progress, as the show seamlessly combined the heritage of sheep farming with the future of Australian agriculture. Among the weekend’s highlights was the Central Vic Yard Dog Championships, where Nagambie’s own Darby McClaren and Seymour’s James Leahy wowed the crowds with their highly skilled working dogs. Navigating complex obstacle courses with precision and calm authority, both handlers demonstrated the incredible bond and trust forged between dog and farmer.
“It’s not just about competing; it’s about bringing out the best in your dog,” said Darby, a sentiment that echoed throughout the championships and reflected the values at the heart of the rural community.
Elsewhere, the showgrounds buzzed with activity as sheep competitions drew large crowds, many keen to admire the exceptional breeding and fleece quality on display. The Australian Fleece Competition, recognised as the world’s largest fully measured fleece competition, attracted more than 400 entries from across the country. It was a striking testament to the dedication of Australian woolgrowers and the premium quality of our nation’s fibre. This prestigious competition not only reaffirmed Australia’s global reputation for wool excellence but also highlighted the tireless efforts of local producers whose work sustains both the industry and regional communities like ours. More than just a livestock showcase, the Australian Sheep & Wool Show has become a cherished gathering of community, heritage, and shared passion. It’s a place where old friends reunite, new connections are forged, and the next generation of rural Australians find inspiration. The sense of pride was unmistakable — not only in Bendigo, but in towns like Nagambie, where sheep farming is woven into the fabric of daily life. For communities like ours, events like the Australian Sheep & Wool Show are more than just exhibitions; they’re powerful reminders of the strength, resilience, and enduring traditions that continue to shape and define rural Australia. As we reflect on this year’s show, it becomes clear that we’re celebrating far more than sheep and wool, we’re honouring the people, the places, and the partnerships that sustain our rural way of life. From the paddocks to the showgrounds, it’s the enduring spirit of community, pride, and tradition that truly unites us. Here’s to the sheep, the wool, and the strong, shared legacy that continues to shape regional Australia. Pictured Darby McClaren, James Leahy and Bryce McClaren