Sheepvention again enjoyed by thousands

SHEEPVENTION 2025 has cemented its place as Australia’s premier agricultural field day, with thousands flocking to the Hamilton Showgrounds to celebrate the enduring spirit of rural innovation in agriculture and community.

By Staff Writer

Members from the Hamilton Rotary Club were busy throughout the day feeding hungry visitors.

This year’s event not only paid tribute to our agricultural roots but also boldly stepped forward with new initiatives that captured the imagination of attendees, exhibitors and local leaders alike.

Sheepvention began over four decades ago and has evolved into a cornerstone of agricultural thought, showcasing breakthroughs in livestock breeding, ag-tech, and rural education.

The Innovation Hub, Farm Dog Championships, and White Suffolk feature breed reflected this year’s progressive tone, while maintaining beloved traditions like the wool shearing competitions, community organisation and local artisan displays.

Southern Grampians Shire Council praised the event’s scale and substance, noting the impact of sell-out ticketed events and the seamless coordination across sectors.

Exhibitors reported high engagement, government ministers expressed admiration for the community-driven focus, and sponsors voiced continued commitment to Sheepvention’s values of excellence and connection.

The inaugural Women in Ag Lunch, proudly supported by Agriculture Victoria, was a standout highlight - providing a powerful platform to celebrate female leadership and innovation across Australia’s farming sector.

This ticketed event was a sell-out success, drawing praise for its inspiring speakers and warm atmosphere.

Due to its success, the Women in Ag luncheon will now become an annual event, amplifying voices that shape the future of farming.

Also run with strong impact, the Peter Schroder Breakfast Lecture hit its third year.

The panel discussion delivered deep insights into emerging consumer trends with respect to sheep meat and wool, and the need for the industry to start planning for these changing sentiments as demand for meat and wool products changes.

With record attendance and glowing feedback, this morning session is now firmly part of Sheepvention’s future.

The heart of Sheepvention 2025 beat strongly during the After Dark Drought Relief Concert.

AGL supported farmers in the district by purchasing 150 tickets and distributed them to those who needed them most.

This was a joyful yet purposeful gathering spotlighting mental health awareness and resilience in our rural communities.

Shannon Noll’s performance, support acts Michael Honan and Bec Milly, the Let’s Talk Foundation panel discussion, and live and silent auction items resulted in overwhelming support.

Attendees have described the night as “authentic,” “deeply moving,” and “a beacon of hope.”

This year’s Sheepvention, and evening under the stars, would not have been possible without the tireless work of volunteers, whose dedication and behind-the scenes mastery breathed life into every marquee, shed and moment.

From setup to pack-down, they are the quiet engine powering the event’s success year after year.

Volunteers were applauded for their warmth and professionalism, especially from exhibitors involved in the Ag Passport and exhibiting in the Innovation Hub.