Rural
29 July, 2026
Sheepvention set to showcase the best of Australian agriculture
The Hamilton Pastoral and Agricultural Society has played a prominent role in the region’s agricultural history since its establishment back in 1858, holding its initial show in September of that year.
Since its inaugural event, the show has been held at three locations, beginning near French and Thompson streets before moving to Bree Park and later to its current home at the Hamilton Showgrounds.
The Showgrounds have been at the forefront of the region’s agricultural heritage for more than 160 years. During World War II, the site was used as a military training camp before being returned to society in 1944, allowing the annual show to proceed later that year.
Over the decades, the facilities have continued to thrive with the addition of the Sheep Pavilion in 1959, the King Street Shed in 1986, the Ram Pavilion in 1989, and the Hamilton Exhibition and Conference Centre in 2010.
Today, the showgrounds are home to the annual Sheepvention Rural Expo, which is one of Australia’s premier agricultural events, attracting thousands of visitors annually and showcasing the latest in machinery, livestock, agriculture, and innovation.
Several new and returning events will complement this year’s Sheepvention, offering visitors opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate regional Australia.
One of the program highlights will be the annual Peter Schroder Lecture, featuring a highly acclaimed Political Journalist and commentator, Chris Uhlmann. The lecture will be held on Monday, August 3, in the Napier Room at the Hamilton Exhibition and Conference Centre, with an 8:30 am arrival for an 8: 45 am start time.
A former National Political editor for both the ABC and Channel Nine, Mr Uhlmann is a Walkley Award-winning journalist, columnist for The Australian, and political contributor on Sky News.
During the lecture, he will look at the challenge of balancing Australia’s energy transition with emissions reduction commitments while exploring the impacts on agribusiness and agriculture in regional Australia.
Meanwhile, the much-loved Sheepvention Fashion Show will return on Saturday, August 1, celebrating the versatility of Australian wool.
Hosted by Hugh Koch, the runway event will showcase the latest collection from leading country and lifestyle brands, featuring premium wool and wool-blend garments designed for both practicality and style.
From modern everyday pieces and tailored outerwear to classic country attire, the parade will emphasise how Australian wool continues to evolve while remaining at the heart of regional fashion.
The fashion show is a popular fixture on the Sheepvention calendar, drawing fashion enthusiasts, producers, and visitors together to celebrate local quality craftsmanship, design, and the natural fibre that has long underpinned Australia’s sheep industry.
Guests will be welcomed with a complimentary beverage and canapés prepared by The Speckled Frog, before the parade begins at 6:30 pm, creating a serene social atmosphere ahead of one of the weekend’s signature events.
Returning on Sunday, August 2 after a successful debut last year, will be the Women in Ag Lunch, bringing together women from right across the agriculture sector for an afternoon of networking, conversations, and celebration.
Held in the Napier Room from 12 pm, guests will enjoy a two-course meal provided by The Speckled Frog and a mocktail upon arrival before hearing from guest speakers discussing leadership, innovation, and the future of women in the agriculture sector.
As one of the country’s leading agriculture events, Sheepvention continues to evolve while remaining grounded in the traditions that have shaped Hamilton for more than 160 years.
From world-class agriculture innovation and industry forums to fashion, networking opportunities, and family entertainment, the 2026 program reflects the diversity of modern agriculture while acknowledging the region's rich pastoral heritage.
Beyond its economic significance, Sheepvention actively provides an opportunity for producers, industry leaders, and the wider community to come together, share ideas, and showcase the innovation and resilience that continue to drive Australian agriculture.
Building on more than four decades of success, this year’s Sheepvention Rural Expo will once again place Hamilton at the centre of Victorian agriculture, simply reinforcing its reputation as a destination for education, innovation, and community connection.
Sheepvention will be held on Sunday, August 2, and Monday, August 3.
More information can be found online at bit.ly/4vB3SJM or on the Sheepvention Facebook page.