Competition to be a shear delight

'Shear' rural entertainment will be a major highlight at this year's Mingenew Lions Midwest Expo.

Shearers from as far as Dumbleyung head into town for the annual Quick Shears competition.

Organiser Mike Henderson said the event had been running since 2010.

"The event usually draws about 20 to 30 competitors, including a couple of ladies, which is great," he said.

The contest has two divisions - a local division for competitors within 80km of Mingenew and an open division for competitors from across the State.

The winner of the open class takes home $1200, after which there are monetary prizes to fifth place.

The local class is known as the Ash Heitman Memorial Trophy.

"Ash was a much loved local who competed in the inaugural competition, but was sadly taken in a tragic accident at the age of 21, not long after," Mike said.

The Heitman family are long-time residents of the area and the community deeply felt the loss of this young man.

"An anonymous young lady rang me one day and asked if the next Quick Shear competition could be named in honour of Ash. We didn't hesitate, it seemed perfectly fitting," Mike said.

First place for this award is a perpetual trophy, money and a prize. There are also cash prizes to eighth place.

All judges are local farmers and community members.

"It takes many people to arrange an event like this. From the supply of sheep to sponsors, it couldn't take place without them," Mike said.

The competition starts on Friday afternoon and costs $40 to enter. Entrants receive a free singlet and part proceeds are donated to Mingenew Silver Chain Nursing.

"It's about, entertainment and fun but mostly about promoting the industry and letting the competitors demonstrate their skills," Mike said.