Sheep Still Showstoppers

Filed in Recent News by Elizabeth Flaherty June 10, 2017

By Elizabeth Hagley

THE cold weather did not deter locals and tourists alike from coming out in their droves for Merriwa’s 27^th annual festival of the fleece today.

See photos below.

The event is well known for the running of the sheep, but today the red socked showstoppers enjoyed a more leisurely stroll up Bettington Street, drawing the parade to a standstill for a number of minutes.

After some encouragement, the sheep got moving and resumed leading the parade with floats from throughout the Merriwa community and participants from outside the area, such as the vintage car display.

This year’s theme was ‘True Blue’ with floats and local businesses getting into the spirit.

The Festival continues tomorrow with team penning and the bush poet’s breakfast: What’s On This Weekend.

: The crowd favourite, the red socked sheep rounding the corner of Bettington Street, Merriwa. Photo By Elizabeth Hagley.

: Upper Hunter team penning in the parade. Team penning can be enjoyed at the showground throughout the Festival this weekend. Photo by Elizabeth Hagley.

: 2017 Sydney Royal Easter Showgirl Maisie Morrow waving to the crowd with Big Dog.

: Merriwa Rugby League Football and Netball Club in the parade. Photo by Elizabeth Hagley.

: Merriwa locals, Eliza and Lula Peebles enjoying the festival.