PHIL and Kim Hartwich, Mt Challicum Merino Stud, have taken out the grand champion fleece title at the Australian Fleece Competition in Bendigo with an ultrafine Merino fleece.
The grand champion 16.5 micron fleece scored 94.85 out of a possible 100 points for its ultrafine Merino ram fleece.
The Hartwichs, whose farm is near Ararat, said they were “pleased and honoured” to take out the title.
Last year’s champion, Wurrook, from Rokewood exhibited the reserve grand champion fleece, scoring 93.25 for their 15.2-micron extra ultrafine Merino fleece.
The Conrayn Merino Stud in the Monaro district of NSW was awarded most successful exhibitor for the third year running.
PT Venning from South Australia claimed the champion commercial fleece sash with a score of 92.45 for their 17.3 micron fleece.
Competition judges Tianyu Wool buyer Rod McLeish and Landmark Yennora Wool Manager David Freeman praised the high standard of the entries.
Mr Freeman acknowledged the difficult growing conditions throughout large parts of Australia, while Mr McLeish highlighted the competitions unique combination of traditional fleece judging and commercial wool trade processing requirements.
The Australian Fleece Competition, now in its 14th year is the largest fully measured fleece competition in the world, this year attracting nearly 500 entries, is a joint effort by AWTA, ASBA and Landmark.
Almost two thirds of the fleeces on show were donated by exhibitors for auction at the completion of the competition with all proceeds to be donated to the Make a Wish Foundation.
