Full program sees crowds surge at 46th Woolorama

Locals and visitors from further afield flocked through the gates of the 46th Make Smoking History Wagin Woolorama, with 2000 more people than last year accounted for.

With pleasant weather and the promise that there would be more to see and do this year, president Tony Baxter, the committee and countless volunteers kept the momentum of the event rolling.

The official opening took place the night before Woolorama’s first day, and there was a thrilling close to the event on Saturday with the last bull ride at the very popular UniGrain Wagin Rodeo.

CBH chairman Wally Newman, who officially opened this year’s Woolorama, marvelled at the feat of the long-running event.

“Woolorama is a great training ground for young people who can learn valuable leadership skills,” he said.

School student numbers were up this year in the judging competitions, which organisers said was an important element of the show.

So impressed was he with Woolorama that Mr Newman pondered the possibility of a combined event with Newdegate Machinery Field Days, in one big show of strength.

Also at the official opening, locals Brad and Sylvia Patterson were recognised for their commitment to the cattle section over many years.

Guests were also treated to a preview of the fashion parade, which included a collection of woollen high-fashion designs, courtesy of major sponsor Peter Scanlan Wools.

Top awards in the livestock sections included that of the Hogg family, of Navanvale Merino stud, Williams, who exhibited a Merino ram that was judged supreme exhibit.

The Meaton family, of Misty Hills Merino stud, won the coveted supreme award for their superfine fleece in the wool section.

In the British and Australasian sheep breeds section, the Squiers family, of Shirlee Downs stud, Quairading, won the best sheep in the shed title in the interbreed competition.

The Pugh family, of Summit Gelbvieh stud in Narrikup, won the interbreed cattle award for their cow exhibit.

With poultry numbers up, Collie breeder Peter Strike was in his element, winning best bird of the show with his Old English Game exhibit.

Wade McCarthy and Freya Tomasini were judged all-round cowboy and cowgirl, respectively, for their rodeo performances.