TOP SIRE 2025–2026 INDUSTRY NEWS THE LONGEST RUNNING TRIAL HAS SEEN IT ALL The Walgett Show Society Wether Trial has seen many of the wool industry’s highs and lows since starting in 1977. Originally established as a means of raising money for the local show, starting with just eight teams representing two bloodlines, the Walgett Show Society Wether Trial is now considered the longest running event of its type, held continuously for nearly 50 years. One of the people behind the trial is Brennan O’Keefe, Tootha, Walgett. He said the trial has always been well supported by the local district with more than 55 different entrants, representing at least 15 bloodlines, participating since its inception. “Some of the participants have sold up over the years and the new owners have taken their place in the trial,” he said. “We’ve always had a minimum of eight teams and reached 21 teams one year.” He said the trial has seen some interesting results over the years. The highest value commercial fleece in 1977 was valued at $15.72, but top fleeces in recent years have fetched more than $100. “The first fleece valued at over $100 was from the Wilson’s, “Myall”, Lightning Ridge, in 2000–2001 getting $102.33,” he said. The final shearing of the most recent trial was held in March 2025, with the highest value commercial fleece coming back at $96.29 on account of Victor and Ian Weber, “Hadleigh”, Walgett. The Weber’s also won awards for best processing wool and second place in the wool section. The overall champion team was awarded to George and Libby Caton, “Yarrawonga”, Warren, who also won the prize for best flock breeder of the trial. Brennan said four of the original eight teams are still participating in the trial, with two operating under the same management nearly 50 years on. Adrian Newton, “Combadery”, Walgett, is one such woolgrower. He has been entering his sheep in the Walgett Show Society Wether Trial since day dot and is yet to miss a year. “We try and learn from what other people are doing and compare fleece values to see if we’re in the ball park of where the leading competitors sit from around the district,” Adrian said. “Wether trials are only part of the measurement.” “ Wether trials are only – 24 –
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