For only the second time since the Berridale ewe competition was started in 1929 has it been cancelled: the first had been during the Second World War.
Run under the auspices of the Berridale Agricultural Bureau the annual event has been the focus for Merino breeders on the Monaro and has lifted the productivity of many flocks during the past 91 years.
Competition president Ross Walters, Dalgety was philosophical about the cancellation due to current social restrictions in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
"We have to be sensible about our movements if we want this virus to pass," he said.
"I know it is a big thing to cancel a long running event but we had to be honest and realistic."
Mr Walters said they had 11 flocks entered for the two day event to be held in early May which was a credit to those breeders who have kept the standard of the flock through a long period of drought on the Monaro.
"We've been affected by both persistent drought and local fires and now after a significant fall of rain early in the year we are entering back into drought conditions but they were still keen to enter the competition," he said.
"The Merino ewes had been managed well throughout those times and with the interest of several new competitors, the 91st Competition was looking strong."
Mr Walters said return judge Garry Cox, Langdene Merinos, Dunedoo and David Zouch, Hollow Mount Merinos, Bigga had been lined up to judge and the local community once again was looking forward to supporting the competition.
"Once again Monaro Livestock and Property would have sponsored the Overall Winner," he said..
The committee saw one change in the structure this year with Sarah Rogers becoming the new secretary, as Tim Jardine has stepped down as secretary after a significant time.
Ross Walters continued as President, Liz Walters as treasurer, Doug Constance as advertiser.
