Shearer aims for third title
Champion speed shearer Beau Guelfi, of Kukerin, has his name on two world shearing records and will soon be looking to add a third this weekend.
The 34-year-old says he is in peak form, which he contributes to maintaining a high work standard, plenty of support from his family and a healthy standard of living.
This will be Mr Guelfi's third attempt at breaking the solo Merino ewe eight-hour record, which is held by Cartwright Terry who sheared 466 sheep in 2003.
Originally from Gisborne, New Zealand, Mr Guelfi learnt his trade of 19 years in Australia.
"I had excellent mentors in Clem Henry and Tony Robb," he said.
"To be a good shearer, you must be disciplined.
"All shearers should have respect for their work, as well as the farmer, the sheep, and, importantly, respect for yourself.
"If shearers challenge themselves to improve their skills by setting some goals, this can lead to a long, fulfilling career in the industry.
"There are good rewards to be had and it is possible to work and travel around the world, enjoying the opportunity to learn off other cultures and meet interesting people."
Mr Guelfi said shearing was classified unofficially as a sport in Australia and industry representatives were pushing to have it more recognised and even included as an Olympic Games sport.
"If shearing ever is added to the Olympics, I will be going for gold," Mr Guelfi said.
"But what really drives me is encouraging more participation into the industry, especially new entrants.
"Yes, it is hard work, but having a physical career is a very healthy alternative when one considers their options."
Mr Guelfi's world-record attempt will take place at the Moltoni family's farm, Scenic Park, at Yathroo, on February 6, from 7am to 5pm.
Carl Moltoni said he was very pleased to host the event with organisers Wilkie Shearing Contractors to raise funds for the WA Variety Diamonds and Pearl Bash.
After shearing for WSC, of Moora, Mr Guelfi said Scenic Park's Cranmore-blood Merinos would favour his record attempt.
"These are some of the better sheep in the district and the wool combs very well," Mr Guelfi said.
Mr Guelfi said he would also listen to fast-tempo music throughout the day to help keep in step with the job ahead of shearing each sheep in well under a minute.
This includes dragging the sheep into position, clean shearing, then putting the sheep down the porthole, plus having occasional drinks.
He gets only three breaks during the day.
"It will be a tough day, but win or lose, it all comes down to making an effort," he said.
Event organiser Rhenice Wilkie, of WSC, said Mr Guelfi was a very popular shearer and she expected many people would turn up to support him.
"Visitors will get a chance of watching Beau at his best as well as supporting a charity fund raising," she said.
Entry is by $2 donation and the day will include food and drink, entertainment for the children, and there will be a band and a licensed bar until 10pm.
For further information contact Ms Wilkie on 0452 477 651 or wilkieshearing@hotmail.com .
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