Finley High School's success at the Holbrook Sheep & Wool Fair has continued in 2025.
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Last month, the Holbrook event attracted stud sheep breeders and a plethora of secondary school students from throughout the Riverina, Southern NSW and Victoria.
On day one of the show, schools were treated to educational workshops before competing with their school sheep in the School's Interbreed Competition.
Finley High School again took part, with agriculture teacher Gary Webb saying it is “a great opportunity for students who are beginners at showing sheep to learn the craft”.
The school claimed several awards, including the much coveted Champion School Ram and Champion School Ewe.
The school's group of three class also received the champion tri-ribbon.
Lindsey Matheson with the School Champion Ewe.
On day two of the fair, schools not only competed against each other, but against professional stud sheep breeders from throughout the region.
But this did not daunt the Finley High show team.
They won Champion Poll Dorset Ram and Champion Poll Dorset Ewe, and Interbreed Championship Group of Three.
The school also picked up first places in the pair of ewes and milk tooth shorn ram classes.
Additionally, Mr Webb said the event allows students to try their hand at judging.
“It’s a great opportunity for students to have to think at a higher level, and also gain exposure to the sheep industry,” he said.
“All the students competed in the junior judging competition, where they were required to judge four meat sheep and rank them.
“The students were marked on their selections, their presentation, and the way they handled the sheep when judging the sheep.”
Six of the students were then invited to give an oral presentation to the over-judge, Paul Routley.
Beth Loughridge placed third and Maggie Bramley was selected as the overall winner.
As a result of their successes during the fair, Finley High School was also presented with the Most Successful School award - a testament to the hard work and dedication of both students and staff.
The Finley High School show team will be back on the road later this week for another great experience.
They will be heading to Cowra for the NSW Poll Dorset Championships, which are being held this Friday and Saturday.
(From left) Sara Hayes, Monet Vinecombe, Beth Loughridge, Maggie Bramley, Matilda Burton and Indie Matheson took part in the junior judging competition.
Ava Schlink with judge Paul Routley and the Champion Poll Dorset Ewe, Woolly Ewe Lamb 2425.
Finley High School's show team with some of ribbons and winners.
Stephen Trickett presents the Most Successful Poll Dorset Ram Trophy to Maggie Bramley.
Finley High won the Pair of Ewes class. Hayley Sharp leads exhibit 2410 and Lauren Jarrett leads exhibit 2421.
The Group of Three winning team (from left) Maggie Bramley with exhibit 2412, Ava Schlinck with exhibit 2410 and Kate Tilley with exhibit 2421.
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