Warren Show 2023

Great weather, a solid turn-up, and the fun of the fair, were all highlights of last weekend’s annual Warren Show. A balmy 25 degree winter’s day and lots to see and do, enticed a good crowd to the 143rd version of the local agricultural event.

There was plenty of agriculture displays, whip cracking, horse events, the pavilion was packed with hand-crafted wares and cooking, a circus display, lawn-mower racing, and the ever popular, Quick-Shear competition.

President of the Warren P&A Association, Justin Sanderson, said the wonderful weather helped to attract a great crowd.

“All our feedback so far, was it was one of our better shows, which is always great to hear.

“Every year, it seems to get bigger and better,” he added. Its success, however, was a real group effort, he emphasised.

“That wouldn’t be possible without the hard-working team of committee members and volunteers.

“A huge ‘thanks’ goes out to them who continue to put on a fantastic event year after year,” Justin enthused.

One of the biggest draw cards of the day, the Quick Shear, had a big crowd of supporters to cheer on the shearers across four categories.

“It drew a massive crowd and would have to be my highlight of the day,” Justin added.

Winners in the open category were Steve Mudford followed by Chad Marshall, Jack O’Hara, and Damien and Ethan Brown. Organiser and MC for the event, Scotty Bell was winner in the senior category, followed by Nick Evison, Will Sharwook and Brett McDougall.

The Lawn-Mower Races were also action-packed, with a few spills and lots of dust to keep the crowds entertained! In the annual Schools Quiz students battled it out in teams for the honour of Show Champion.

Entries were down in the wool fleece competition, which was not unexpected due to the funeral of merino classer, Paul Kelly, but judge Will Redington said the standard was extremely high.

Students from Warren Central School were also on hand on Friday, June 2 for the judging, helping, with fleece weighing, writing down scores and learning about fleece judging in general.

The top four fleeces were all from Gilgandra, with Peter McAllister from ‘Springvale’ winning grand champion, champion fleece in flock breeders, and champion highest commercial value. Chief steward of the pavilion, Karene Cosgrove, said it was another great year of entries this year.

“We are extremely lucky to have such a great community. Everyone gets involved and contributes so many wonderful entries.

“Thank-you to everyone who entered this year, and to all the stewards who take the time to judge and make their sections look amazing; everyone pitches-in to make the pavilion look so fabulous,” Karene added.