BROTHER and sister Georgia Birch (a former Euroa resident) and Thomas Birch (a Euroa farmer and shearer), have found a fun way to raise money and awareness for a serious cause.
They are the team behind the inaugural Elders Euroa Speed Shear 2023, a competition to be held the evening before this year's Euroa Agricultural Show, with all profits to be donated to mental health support organisation Beyond Blue.
“For the farming industry, the industry in its entirety has higher rates of poor mental health and poor mental health treatment,” Georgia said.
“We wanted to share awareness… [regarding] the pressures and strain that the lifestyle of the farming industry can put on an individual.”
Georgia and Thomas know this too well, having lost their father Warren Birch to suicide in 2017.
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“[The speed shear] is a fun way to raise money for a good cause such as Beyond Blue,” Thomas said.
Georgia explained that in contrast to ordinary show shearing, speed shearing is “more exciting and more of a spectacle” due to the sole focus on shearing a single sheep as fast possible.
“It'll be really good to have the community there, because it’s the first time that we're trying to bring it,” Thomas said.
“So, we really want as many people as possible to turn up and have a look.”
A barbecue and bar during the event are set to complement the competition.
The siblings noted there is still time for more shearers to enter.
Cash prizes will be awarded to “open” finalists placing first to 10th, and to “senior”, “intermediate” and “learner” finalists for places first to sixth.
The show will begin at the Euroa Showgrounds at 6pm on Friday, October 27, with presentations to be held at the Euroa Hotel following the competition.
Pre-purchase entry via https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/elders-euroa-speed-shear-2023-tickets-723911457657 is encouraged for spectators and competitors.
