General News
6 March, 2026
Quick shear marks 10 years
Clunes and District Young Farmers' Clunes Quick Shear has raised over $7500 for rural communities recovering from natural disasters thanks to local support.
The recent Clunes Quick Shear has raised over $7500 for rural communities recovering from natural disasters thanks to local support.
Clunes and District Young Farmers (CDYF) dedicated their 10th annual Clunes Quick Shear on February 28, and its fast-paced clipper action, to BlazeAid.
The charity helps rural communities recover from fires, floods, and other disasters by rebuilding fences and vital infrastructure.
Yesterday, CDYF volunteer and former president Jenny Redpath counted the money raised on the day including from the gate, auction, money tins, and raffle.
While they fell short of their $10,000 goal the small group of volunteers raised $7591 thanks to community support.
“Considering we started off as a little get together as a bit of a wool shed dance,” she said.
“To now grow to have a full competition, big prize money, it’s fantastic.
“It’s good to see it grow, and keep growing, with a fantastic crew.”
This year, around 600 people attended the event, fewer than previous years, but still a “fantastic” crowd to Ms Redpath.
The community group has previously raised over $25,000 over four years.
“We’re all volunteers but especially when we choose something like BlazeAid, it drives you to want to do this and put on a good show,” she said.
It’s a monumental effort that saw a full line-up of 50 talented shearers across five categories.
The fastest against any competitor, and winning the open category, was Jimmy Sommels with a time of 21.74 seconds.
Already looking to the future, Ms Redpath invites those interested in joining CDYF, even if they’re not a farmer, to get in touch.
“We’re a friendly group and if anyone wants to get involved, even if it’s something small, we’ve got open arms,” she said.
“Every year it seems to get better and better.”