President John Roxburgh, said the South West Slopes Stud Merino Breeders Field Day Committee has always had the philosophy of displaying sheep undercover at the one site in conjunction with industry related displays.
“We do of course wish all competitors in the various competitions a successful day but this is not our focus,” he said.
“The day is about showcasing the Merino and bringing together all those who participate in the industry.”
Mr Roxburgh said the committee recognises there is too much to see in one day but also it is hard for both exhibitors and our guests to commit to more, so all we can offer is that we will do it again next year.
“The Field Day is a dynamic event, continuing to evolve and this year we will not be holding a Commercial Maiden Ewe Competition.
“SWS Sheep Breeders put their efforts into the very successful “Flocks 4 Future“ seminar where producers and industry participants heard specialists give presentations which were very much appreciated by those present.”
However the fashion parade which has become an iconic event will still be a feature to allow a small but welcome break from talking sheep, Mr Roxburgh noted.
Something that has not changed for more than 20 years is the date when the Stud Merino Breeders of the South West Slopes get together to promote their sheep breeding and showcase what the Merino Industry has to offer, so we encourage you to put the first Thursday in September in your diaries as a day to attend the South West Slopes Stud Merino Field Day.
“This event now enjoys the reputation of being the largest gathering of Merino Studs at one site (all under cover) on a single day that you can find,” Mr Roxburgh said.
“The committee have had to limit the studs attending to those registered in NSW, as the event has grown they decided to stage the Field Day at St. Clement’s Retreat at Galong*, affectionately known to locals as the Galong Monastery.
“There will be 56 studs on display and with many people travelling long distances to view the sheep and displays, we are fortunate to have a facility such as St Clement’s to make the day enjoyable for all.”
The Field Day itself is a huge logistical exercise and Mr Roxburgh said he would like to thank all those on the committee as well St Clement’s staff for the wonderful effort they put in to make the day a success.
“There are of course many others who contribute either commercially and or physically participating on the day as well as our sponsors, most of whom have been with us for many years and I would like to thank them all for their support,” he said.
*editors note: Due to the wet ground conditions the South West Slopes Merino Field Day this Thursday (September 1) has been moved to the nearby Harden Showground.