ANNOUNCED early on Tuesday afternoon, the organising committee of Sheepvention Rural Expo has made a strategic decision to cancel this year's Ram Sale.

The committee said the proactive move is aimed at re-evaluating and enhancing the event for future success.

Acknowledging the Ram Sale has been a highlight of the annual event for over 40 years, drawing breeders and buyers from across the country, they said unfortunately this year's entries did not reach anticipated levels.

Rather than proceeding with a suboptimal sale the committee chose to take “this opportunity to regroup and come back stronger”.

The decision was made swiftly to provide vendors, sponsors, potential buyers and Sheepvention patrons with ample notice.

Sheepvention president, David Botterill said despite the challenges, 2024 will still bring a fantastic event.

“We are disappointed that a longstanding aspect of Sheepvention has succumbed to the changing nature of ram sales, with the increase of on property sales and the post-COVID rise of online platforms,” he said.

“We are however still very excited to showcase the Merino breed through a number of merino stud exhibitors on display and the Merino Sheep Show. 2024 will bring another fantastic event, with a jam-packed schedule on the cards.”

The committee said the decision presented an opportunity for the committee to gather feedback, explore new ideas, and implement strategies that will enhance interest and participation into the future.

The committee was confident that the cancellation will lead to improved and more exciting event components that continue to support and engage the agricultural community.

Sheepvention Rural Expo will continue to host a number of highly anticipated competitions, including the Virbac Hamilton & Western District Sheep Show, Coprice Victorian Farm Dog Championships, Proway Wool Handling Competition, Inventions Competition, interactive demonstrations, childrens entertainment and over 500 trade exhibits.

Further Sheepvention details released

ENTRIES for the many prestigious Sheepvention competitions are now open with the event celebrating the best in sheep breeding, farm dogs, wool handling, innovations and youth involvement in agriculture.

The Hamilton & Western District Sheep Show is renowned for showcasing the finest sheep breeds in the region.

The competition attracts top breeders who present their best stock, vying for recognition and awards that highlight their dedication to genetic excellence.

THIS year’s event will showcase the Hampshire Down as the feature breed.

Working dogs

A HIGHLIGHT for many, the Coprice Victorian Farm Dog Championships will again exhibit the extraordinary skills of working dogs and their handlers.

This competition tests the agility, obedience, and intelligence of working dogs as they navigate sheep into yards, a thrilling event that demonstrates the vital role these dogs play in modern farming operations.

Wool handling

THE Proway Wool Handling competition will again highlight the skills required in wool preparation.

Participants will demonstrate their ability to handle and prepare fleeces for market, focusing on speed, accuracy, and presentation.

This event underscores the importance of wool handling in maintaining the high standards of the Australian wool industry.

Inventions

INNOVATION is at the heart of the agricultural industry, and the Inventions Competition celebrates this spirit.

Inventors and entrepreneurs are invited to showcase their cutting-edge technologies and solutions designed to advance farming practices.

From machinery to software, the competition provides a stage for groundbreaking ideas that could shape the future of agriculture.

The 2024 competition will see the launch of three new compressed categories: South West TAFE New Invention, Sinclair Wilson Improved & Modified Invention and the Rural Bank Primary School Invention.

Junior competition

ENCOURAGING the next generation of agricultural experts, the Junior Judging competition offers young participants the chance to develop and demonstrate their judging skills.

This event is designed to educate and inspire youth, fostering their interest and expertise in sheep assessment.

The program also aims to give students throughout the region a greater understanding of the careers available in the agriculture sector.

Hamilton Pastoral & Agricultural Society business and events manager, Emmelie Nijskens said Sheepvention competitions were always “a great opportunity for individuals to showcase their skills and innovations”.