IT’S been woolly, woolly cold lately and what better way to warm up but to get into some woolly retail window dressing for the Shop Window Competition ahead of the 2022 Sheepvention Rural Expo.

As ewe would expect there was nothing but shear creativity on display around town as businesses got into this year’s theme of ‘Most Creative Sheep and Wool Display’.

Windows were drenched in town with sheep, knitting needles, spun wool and garments on display.

Last Friday, Sheepvention president, Dr Kathryn Robertson, Hamilton Pastoral & Agricultural (P&A) Society chair, Will Kinghorn, and the now infamous sheep about town, Shaun the Sheep, were baled up to class the best window display.

Competition was tough, with judges a little sheepish in drafting the weaners (winners), nevertheless, ear tagged Brown Bird Haus with first place, Bellcourt Books in second place and Linen House in third place.

Winners were given a free flock of tickets for entry into Sheepvention - six, four and two tickets for first, second and third place respectively.

Hamilton P&A Society business and events manager, Emmelie Nijskens, said it was great to see the spirit of Sheepvention return to Hamilton with multiple local businesses dressing up their windows for the annual event.

“The competition hasn’t been held since 2019, so it’s wonderful to finally see it baaa…ck,” she said.

“It’s really pleasing to see the community so engaged and enthusiastic about what was an annual event, and despite the pandemic induced hiatus cancelling the event for two years, local businesses and schools have quickly got into the spirit of Sheepvention and dressed up their windows superbly.

“There are some really lovely, creative, funny, colourful, designs around town for everyone to enjoy.

“The shop windows will continue their display at least until the conclusion of Sheepvention.”