On Saturday 22 July, a 500-strong crowd made their way to the Marra Field Day, marking their most successful year to date.

The annual event champions the local sheep-breeding industry, hosting 33 studs who competed for attention in a day filled with activities. 

“This year, we proudly introduced the Grand Champion Ewe Competition in memory of Paul Kelly, an esteemed member of the Egelabra Merino Stud family and an avid promoter of the Merino sheep industry within the Marra and surrounds,” said publicity officer Kellie Turnbull.

The inaugural award was presented to the Reid Family at ‘Kimbriki’. 

“We feel privileged to uphold Paul’s legacy and will endeavour to make this competition a fitting and long-lasting celebration of his life and accomplishments,” Ms Turnbull said. 

The Reid family won the privilege of receiving the inaugural award for their ewe. (Supplied)

Keeping the new events rolling, the introduction of the McDonald Wool Farmers Challenge saw a line up of men and women competing to take the first crown. 

“Challenges included eating a dry weetbix whilst treading washers, building portable panels, riding a 44 gallon horse - which was the wildest bronc in the Marra district,” Ms Turnbull said. 

Locals won the day, with Teague Hall taking out the crown, followed by Marra Hall Trustee President Jack Green. 

The Sheep Counting Competition saw fierce competition in the Women’s, Men’s and Junior competition, taken out by Jemma Perko (Nyngan), Tom Scifleet (Warren) and Marra local Locky McKinnon (respectively).

The day was a celebration of the strong local sheep and wool industry. (Supplied)

An auction and Calcutta dinosaur race saw 50 per cent of proceeds donated to the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), raising $4510 for the cause. 

The auction included a ram donated by Jack and Kym Green of Marra Creek Border Leicester Stud, who had relied on the RFDS when their baby Rodger was critically ill. 

After creating a day that was bigger and better than all, all they can do is hope to do it all again in 2024. 

“What a truly fantastic community we live in!”, said Kellie Turnbull.