The Australian Sheep & Wool Show (The Sheep Show) is the biggest show of its kind in the world. Bendigo is the host city for this event and as in past years was the destination for many exhibitors and spectators from all over Australia.
The 2011 Sheep Show was of special importance to breeders of Dorper and White Dorper sheep, as their sheep were the Feature breeds and were therefore showcased. Many breeders came long distances from interstate to exhibit their sheep, whilst others just came to observe and meet up with fellow Dorper and White Dorper breeders.
Judging took up two very long full days. Rodney Raynor was thorough in his judging of the sheep and gave an excellent critique of each animal at the end of each class. The judging of the sheep therefore became a learning experience for not only the exhibitors but also to the many spectators watching the judging process.
This year's ASBA Bendigo Sheep Show was a big success for Dorpers and White Dorpers. Thanks should go to the many people who made this possible.
It was a big effort with judging being staged over two very full days. We owe a debt of gratitude to all those volunteers who pitched in and helped with the organisation, setting up and running of the Dorper sections of this year's Show. In many cases their tasks commenced twelve months ago, so it has been a long and very time consuming job for them.
Thanks should also go to the exhibitors who supported the show by entering in the Dorper and White Dorper sections. Many of them travelled long distances to exhibit their sheep and we fully appreciated their efforts. Congratulations should also go to the first time exhibitors. They did an excellent job of preparing their sheep. A couple of the novice classes were particularly strong and caused Rodney much deliberation before placing the animals. The exhibitors of these animals should be proud of their efforts and of their positive contribution to the 2011 Sheep Show.