Youngster Archie Sleigh enjoyed looking at the all different sheep gathered for the Riverina Wool and Sheep Expo at Conargo.
Kelsa Horne from Calga Dohne and Sandra Ireson from the Hay Rural Education Program.
The Riverina Sheep and Wool Expo again proved a popular fixture on the region's agricultural calendar in August, drawing a strong crowd to the Conargo Recreation Reserve for the second consecutive year.
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Producers, stud breeders, industry representatives and service providers travelled from across the Riverina and beyond to attend the event, with some making the journey from as far away as Coonamble.
Organisers estimate more than 300 people passed through the gates throughout the day.
Hosted by Riverina Merino and supported by Elders, Nutrien, Australian Wool Network and a range of other sponsors, the expo continues to build on the legacy of the former Elders Riverina Sheep Expo while expanding its industry reach and appeal.
A major attraction was the stud sheep display, featuring 10 Riverina host studs alongside 19 guest studs from across Australia. The lineup included nine first-time exhibitors and showcased a diverse range of Merino and wool sheep genetics, giving attendees the opportunity to compare breeding programs and discuss industry trends firsthand.
More than 28 trade sites complemented the livestock displays, with exhibitors showcasing animal health products, feed solutions, livestock services, animal husbandry equipment and a variety of other innovations aimed at improving on-farm productivity.
Expo co-convenor David Wilson said the event came at an important time for the industry.
With favourable seasonal conditions across many parts of the region, coupled with high commodity and feed prices, he said the expo provided a valuable opportunity for producers to connect, share ideas and assess the latest developments in the sheep and wool sector.
The guest speaker program was another highlight, attracting strong interest from producers looking for practical information they could apply within their own enterprises.
Australian Merino Production Trial representative Craig Wilson shared insights from the nation's largest independent research project into Merino genetics, outlining how producers can use objective data and performance information to make more informed breeding decisions.
Meanwhile, Hayley Pattison of Pattison Pastoral Butchery, Deniliquin, drew a keen crowd during her live home lamb butchering demonstration, offering practical tips and techniques for producers and consumers alike.
The event also maintained its strong community focus.
Students from Conargo Public School were on hand selling raffle tickets while taking the opportunity to learn more about the sheep and wool industry.
Visitors could also browse a range of food, beverage and wool accessory stalls throughout the day.
Formal proceedings were once again guided by master of ceremonies Ian Evans.
Archie Orr enjoyed the butchering demonstration.
Jack Magill.
Hayley Pattinson during the butchery demonstration.
Hayley Pattison presenting during the live butchery demonstration.
Manning the Conargo Public School raffle stand were (back, from left) Tyler Cox and Kylie Charlton; (front) Kaiden and Brax Miller.
