After receiving a great number of fleece entries for the 2025 competition, organisers are aiming for an even larger field in 2026.
The show will be held Saturday, September 12, and producers are encouraged to showcase the quality of their wool through the long-running event.
Mike Cannon said the competition provides an excellent opportunity for woolgrowers to benchmark their clips and celebrate the region's renowned wool industry.
"We were pleased with the 49 fleeces entered in the 2025 Hay Show and we're hoping to better that number in 2026," Mr Cannon said.
"We want woolgrowers to be an important part of the 152nd Hay Show and encourage them to enter their best fleece or fleeces."
All fleeces entered in the competition will be sampled and tested prior to the show, with entry categories determined by the test results.
Organisers are asking exhibitors to ensure all fleeces are properly skirted before submission.
To assist with judging and classification, producers are asked to provide a brief description with each fleece, including the owner's name, an optional bloodline reference, and details such as whether the fleece is from a commercial Merino ewe along with the sheep's age and shearing interval.
Entries should be securely packaged, preferably in dark-coloured plastic bags. Exhibitors are also asked to place identification and fleece details both on the outside of the bag and inside with the fleece.
The Grand Champion Fleece will earn the opportunity to represent the Hay Show at the 2027 Sydney Royal Easter Show, with the winning exhibit retained for entry in the prestigious state competition.
Organisers noted that fleeces will be retained by the Hay Show Society unless exhibitors specifically request their return. Retained fleeces will be sold, with proceeds supporting the ongoing activities of the Show Society.
The closing date for entries is August 27, 2026.
Fleeces can be delivered to the Lugsdin Toyota dealership in Hay, or arrangements can be made directly with Mr Cannon on 0428 151 599 or via email at mikecannonhay@gmail.com.
For more information on the competition, or other competitions and attractions at this year’s show, go to hayshow.com.
