Community
30 June, 2023
Suffolk feature at Sheepvention
SUFFOLK will be the feature breed at this year’s Hamilton and Western District Sheep Show.
As part of Sheepvention 2023, the sheep show is expected to attract more than 500 entries.
A prolific, early maturing sheep with excellent mutton carcasses, Suffolk are energetic and the whole carriage is alert, showing stamina and quality – and they produce quality meat.
Suffolk convenor Lucy Cook is eager to see the breed featured.
"I think it’s going to be a really good turnout of Suffolks this year. Being the feature breed, it will get a few more studs on-board who haven’t previously exhibited at Sheepvention,” Ms Cook said.
“We had about 70 Suffolks attend in 2022, so we’re expecting even larger numbers at this year’s event.”
The ‘Merinos and Ram Sale’ will this year return to its original position in the ram shed, with the interbreed and junior judging to take place in the sheep pavilion throughout both days.
The Sheep Tech hub, previously located on the corner of Shakespeare and King Street, will be incorporated into the northern end of the sheep pavilion, following the change in event layout.
Sheepvention president David Botterill said he was looking forward to the change.
“We’re really excited about the new layout, incorporating all aspects from our sheep show exhibitors to our commercial breeders,” Mr Botterill said.
“Being co-located in the sheep pavilion for the first time will bring areas together and allow a one-stop-shop for all interested stakeholders.”
Any young and eager agriculturally focused students are encouraged to attend The Midfield Group Careers in Ag and VAS Junior Judging in the sheep pavilion on Monday from 9am.
Students will have the opportunity to hear from a number of industry leaders, to expand their knowledge and get a greater understanding of career pathways in agriculture.
The winner of the junior judging competition will proceed to the VAS state finals at the Bendigo Sheep and Wool Show in 2024.
Entries for the sheep show close today, Friday, June 30.
Sheepvention Rural Expo will be held on Sunday, August 6 and Monday, August 7 at the Hamilton Showgrounds.
For more event information and to purchase tickets visit www.sheepvention.com.
