It is still in the grip of a deep drought but Longreach is about to become the centre of attention for woolgrowers around the country, when the Queensland Merino Stud Sheepbreeders Association state sheep show takes place this weekend.
New state opposition leader Tim Nicholls will be rubbing shoulders with AWI’s renowned wool fashion parade, while the judging ring will include first-time southern New South Wales exhibitor Lach River.
According to QMSSA president Karen Huskisson, around 89 sheep will be competing for honours, from Victoria Downs, Wattle Downs, Roselea, Mt Ascot, Jolly Jumbuck, Murrawondah, Coban, Wilgunya and Longreach Pastoral College studs, along with Lach River.
“Our good supporters from Alfoxton in New South Wales had to pull out, but we really appreciate how far people are travelling to be a part of this,” she said.
The trip to Longreach is a journey to the heart of Australia’s sheep-breeding industry for Karen, and she is excited by the many complementary activities taking place to show support for the industry.
They include a woolgrowers’ forum hosted by AWI, seeking ideas on ways to reinvigorate the industry, and a junior judging competition attracting entrants from as far away as Churchie boys school in Brisbane.
Karen said the weekend ahead was a chance for the industry to be united and show its commitment to the heartland.
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
