CLICK GO THE SHEARS... Intermediate section winner Daniel Michelmore, Yorketown, watched by judges Jim McKenzie, David Short and Tony Short at last year’s event.
THE Curramulka Speed Shear you know and love is back for its 13th year.
Shearers from all over the country are set to go head-to-head at the Curramulka Oval on Saturday, March 22 — and entry to see the action is free.
“You can either sit in the sun on the oval or we’ve got a grandstand and lots of seating under shade,” Curramulka Community Club chair Greg Agnew said.
“We have an emcee and music pumping out while the shearers are going, which creates a great atmosphere.”
The competitors get two qualifying shears before the fastest advance to the finals for a chance at $10,000 in prize money and points towards their national rankings.
“By the end of the day, the shearers have got a really good feel for the sheep and they’ve got their gear set up nicely and they get quicker and quicker, so the tension builds during the day,” Mr Agnew said.
“Generally, by the final, they’re shearing at the 20 to 25-second mark, which is pretty impressive.
“Those who have never seen shearing before, it’s quite interesting to watch, and those who are in the industry, they’re really supportive of it and love coming to see how the shearers are going.”
Mr Agnew thanked the event’s sponsors for their support, including major sponsor Heidelberg Materials (formerly known as Hanson).
The crowd can get involved by backing the winner in a Calcutta auction.
There are also children’s activities, including a kids’ shearing event, playground, bouncy castle and face-painting, plus stalls, and the canteen and bar will be running all afternoon.
Shearers can register on the day, but are advised to arrive early, or online at www.curryspeedshear.com.
Gates open at noon, with shearing to start at 12.30pm and finish around 5pm.
