Farrier State Titles Begin

THE coals are hot and the steel is maleable at White Park as 35 competitors from throughout Australia vie for the NSW state farrier titles.

The three day titles began today and culminate on Sunday and bring the opportunity for locals to watch apprentices learn their craft and appreciate the skills of experienced farriers in their 50’s.

Local Scone boys Tim Hedger on the anvil and brother Aaron Hedger Firing.

Scone local Mick Fitzgerald is a competitor and president of the Association and said interest in the traditional trade is growing all the time.

“We are trying to keep the tradition in the trade;  these are made the traditional way with no power tools or electricity,” said Mr Fitzgerald.

“There are really enthusiastic farriers who travel overseas and bring back knowledge all the time,” he said.

The competition is conducted over Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with sponsors being invited to help make a horse shoe on Sunday afternoon.

“There is a fair amount of leniency on Sunday and it can be really funny to watch,” said Mr Fitzgerald.

“People also really like to see shoeing for the clydesdales which is done on Sunday morning,” said Mick Fitzgerald.

Luke Voker from Ausure and Professional Farriers Association President and Scone local Mick Fitzgerald

WHEN: 7am – late afternoon, Friday and Saturday. On Sunday the competition will finish at lunchtime.

WHERE: Scone White Park, Guernsey Street, Scone.