Every October long weekend, the Boorowa Irish Woolfest takes you on a journey to almost-Ireland — complete with traditional music, delicious food, market stalls, and even sheep dog trials and shearing competitions. 

And the highlight of the festival is the Running of the Sheep. 

Located in the picturesque town of Boorowa in New South Wales, this festival celebrates the region’s fine Merino wool and its strong Irish connections.

The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the famous Running of the Sheep. At midday, a group of spirited sheep are herded down the main street, accompanied by the cheers of the crowd and the leaps of Kelpies, the skilled sheepdogs. 

Asked if it’s similar to the Running of the Bulls, the organisers say: “Not quite as dangerous but certainly as visually exciting with the four wheel motor bike in full throttle and the sheep dogs leaping on and off the sheep’s back.” 

The festival boasts a range of attractions, from sheep shearing demonstrations to a street parade showcasing Boorowa’s country life and Irish heritage. Celtic pipe bands, floats and tractors fill the streets, creating a vibrant and joyful atmosphere.

The blessing of the fleece gets things underway on festival day, with a sheep shorn the old-fashioned way before the fleece receives a spiritual thanksgiving.

Boorowa has strong Irish connections and is twinned with Clonoulty in Tipperary. 

In the 1820s, cousins Roger Corcoran and Ned Ryan arrived in the area. They had been sentenced to transportation to New South Wales from Clonoulty in Tipperary. They were later granted ‘Ticket of Freedom’ and played prominent roles in the settlement of the area.

Boorowa is located in the Hilltops region, about one and a half hours’ drive from Canberra. Around 15,000 people attend Woolfest every year and accommodation within the town is limited so if you plan to stay, get in early. 

For more details, go to www.irishwoolfest.com.au. 

DATES & DEETS

06 OCT 

Boorowa NSW

irishwoolfest.com.au


Pictures: The Running of the Sheep is the highlight of the Boorowa Irish Woolfest, cover, and, above, Irish dancing at the festival. Credit: facebook.com/IrishWoolfest