FOR the first time in a decade, the Wimmera Machinery Field Days featured shearing demonstrations this year.
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Murtoas Tom McGrath wanted to run demonstrations to make people more aware of the livestock industry.
He ran multiple shows on Tuesday and Thursday this week.
Mr McGrath used his demonstrations to explain the process of shearing.
The process hasnt changed that much over the years, he said.
We still use the same handpieces that shearers used in the 60s and 70s.
The pattern we shear in is still pretty similar too.
Mr McGrath said anyone could be a shearer, and he encouraged any farmers in the crowd to take the stage and give it a go.
It doesnt matter what shape or size you are, anyone can do it, he said.
If you have the work ethic, you can get through the same numbers.
No two sheep shear the same, some can be a lot easier to get the wool off and it can vary a lot between breeds as well. Mr McGrath said he wanted to raise the profile of the industry and get more people interested in shearing as a profession.
He said there was a skill shortage in the region.
Its a great career opportunity for anyone, especially for young people its a great way to get a head start in life, he said.
