BENDIGO would be a prime position for a sheep shearing events complex, industry members believe.
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And long-serving Bendigo Agricultural Show Society member Don McKinnon would like to see such a complex considered when the master plan for the city’s showgrounds is updated.
Sports Shear Victoria leaders were in the city on Wednesday setting up shearing and wool handling facilities to be used during the Bendigo Agricultural Show, which starts next Friday.
The show will this year feature national and local shearing and wool handling championships.
Mr McKinnon believed permanent shearing facilities at the showgrounds could create opportunities for the show society, though he said the idea would require further investigation.
The master plan is soon to be updated.
“We’d be fully supportive of building a permanent structure that would allow for training and competitions,” Sports Shear Victoria president Malcolm Hull said.
He said such a facility could put Australia in contention to host the world titles.
Mr Hull said there was a lack of suitable complexes in Australia to host the international event.
“Bendigo, as far as Victoria is concerned, is a great position,” he said.
Mr Hull said the city’s proximity to regional cities and metropolitan Melbourne made it an attractive spot for events.
“It’s a good area for sheep,” he said.
Mr Hull said Bendigo was also host to a “wonderful sheep and wool show” and agricultural show.
About 1500 sheep are being transported to Bendigo for the shearing and wool handling championships during the agricultural show.
Mr McKinnon extended his thanks to the team at O'Sullivans Transport for supporting the event.
He said the national and local shearing and wool handling championships were a boon for the show.
Teams from every state will be in Bendigo to compete for the national titles.
Mr Hull said the top two shearers and wool handlers would represent Australia in international competitions.
He expected visiting state representatives would take the opportunity to participate in the local championships while they were at the show, giving Bendigo competitors a chance to take on the nation’s best.
“It’s hellishly competitive,” Mr Hull said of shearing.
Shear delight
BENDIGO Agricultural Show attendees will have the opportunity to see Australia’s best sheep shearers and wool handlers in action.
National and local shearing and wool handling championships will be held as part of the show, in association with Sports Shear Victoria.
The competition will be held over both days of the show, which starts on October 27.
Admission to the show is $17 per adult, $10 for concession card holders, and $8 for children up to 15 years. Entry for children under the age of five is free.
For more information about the program, visit bendigoshow.org.au/