As the shearing season moves into its final stretch, attention turns to Masterton and the final of the PGG Wrightson Vetmed National Shearing Circuit at the Golden Shears. The event marks the conclusion of a nationwide series that has seen competitors travel the length of the country since October, accumulating points and competing across a range of regional shows.

The National Shearing Circuit is regarded as one of the most demanding competitions in the sport. Unlike single breed events, the final requires competitors to shear five different wool types in one performance. These include merino, corriedale, full wool crossbred, second shear crossbred, and crossbred lambs. Each requires a different approach, making the final a test of adaptability, technical skill, and consistency.

For many competitors, the Golden Shears represents the high point of the season. It is widely considered the premier shearing event in the southern hemisphere and one of the most recognised competitions globally. The circuit final held there is therefore not only a domestic title, but a measure of all round shearing ability.

Image: Jack Fagan shearing in the PGG Wrightson-Vetmed National Shearing Circuit

Jack Fagan has been one of the leading performers on this year’s circuit and currently sits at the top of the standings. He has been shearing for sixteen years and entered the industry with the aim of travelling and building a pathway toward farm ownership. Fagan’s competition schedule reflects that ambition, with regular events across New Zealand as well as success in Australia and selection for international competition.

Fagan says the appeal of the National Shearing Circuit lies in its multi breed format. In his view, winning the final demonstrates the ability to shear any type of sheep under pressure. Each breed presents its own challenges, from the fine wool of merinos to the heavier crossbred sheep, and requires different combs, techniques, and pacing.

“The Golden Shears is the pinnacle for us in New Zealand. It’s the one event we all build toward each year” says Fagan.

Preparation for the circuit is ongoing throughout the season. Competitors spend their working days in the sheds, maintaining fitness and refining technique, before travelling to weekend competitions. Fagan notes that a typical day shearing can burn between five and six thousand calories, which places a strong emphasis on recovery, nutrition, and hydration across the season.

Image: Nathan Stradford shearing in the PGG Wrightson-Vetmed National Shearing Circuit

Nathan Stratford, who is also among the leading competitors this year, has been shearing for more than twenty-five years. He describes the circuit as both a physical and mental challenge, particularly with the requirement to change gear and technique between breeds.

“The PGG Wrightson-Vetmed National Shearing Circuit is a real challenge because you’re not just shearing one breed. You’re shearing five different breeds, so it tests you mentally as well as physically.”

Stratford has previously won the National Circuit and represented New Zealand at World Championship level and says the experience of competing in a multi breed final is unique to New Zealand.

Stratford also points to the importance of practice in the shed, saying that consistent repetition and learning from mistakes are the key to improvement. While gym work supports conditioning, the most important preparation remains time on the handpiece.

Both Fagan and Stratford note the strength of emerging talent within the sport, with a number of younger shearers pushing into open level competition and challenging more experienced competitors. The depth of the field has contributed to a closely contested series heading into the final.

The Golden Shears final provides an opportunity to showcase the structure of New Zealand shearing competitions to a wider audience. The multi breed format is not commonly seen in other countries and highlights the versatility required of New Zealand shearers.

For the wider industry, the event is also a reflection of the importance of shearing as a core part of the wool and livestock sectors. It brings together farmers, contractors, wool handlers, and supporters, and provides a platform to recognise the skill and professionalism involved in wool harvesting.

For more information on the National Shearing Circuit, click here.