Fleeces needed for Bendigo wool show

Entries are being called for the 11th Australian Fleece Competition, being held as a key feature of the Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo, Victoria, on July 15–17.

The competition is open to woolgrowers across the nation and convenor Athol Frederick, of Landmark, said the annual gathering of Australian fleeces was the biggest fully measured fleece competition in the world.

“With prices for wool performing so well, we are looking for a strong field of entries this year,” he said.

Mr Frederick said the fleece event that started in 2001 continued to grow because it was based on commercial and subjective assessment.

Judging parameters were updated each year to remain consistent with industry standards. This ensured a strong focus on commercial processing performance.

WA woolgrowers have performed well in the competition in the past and Mr Frederick said each state would be recognised with a highest point winner.

He said the competition generated clear benefits by showcasing top quality wool and acted as a benchmark for the various bloodlines involved.

The judges are commercial industry participants and all fleeces are weighed and sampled for a range of objective measurements under standard Australian Wool Testing Authority procedures.

“Total prize money is over $13,000, and the grand champion fleece winner will receive a $1500 travel voucher,” Mr Frederick said.

Growers can opt to donate the proceeds of their auctioned fleece to the charity Camp Quality and these nominees will not have to pay an entry fee.

Entries must be delivered to Landmark Brooklyn, in

Melbourne, no later than Friday June 3. Fleeces consigned to any other delivery points in Australia must be received by Friday May 27.

All WA entries can be handled through Landmark at Spearwood.

For information, visit www.landmark.com.au, www.sheepshow.com or www.awta.com.au.