Shears' history recalled

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 623, 13 February 1996, Page 7

Shears' history recalled

Waimarino Shears' as it is now known, was formed as 'The Waimarino Easter Shears' in 1979 by local shearers as a fun get-together. When first started, shearing competitions were run on the back of two semi-trailers, kindly donated by Barrett and Taura, with shearing plants from Robert Lilburn's Parapara shed. With events being similar to today's there was junior, 100 plus; intermediate, 150 plus; senior, 250 plus. To scrutinise shearers' seores, Wool Board judges like Tom Martyn, Harry Wills and locals Tom King, John Dempsey and others did the scoring. Lilburns, Strachans, Rangers, Ohorea Station, Waiouru Station and Rokes were but a few of the local farmers to supply sheep for shearing. The first shears to be held was at the Recreation Grounds outside the Football Gym. Major prizes for each event were sponsored by all the local shops, and were very much appreciated. Venues have changed over the years with some cockie' s sheds being used. Organisers are hopeful they will remain at the present site in the showgrounds for years to come. In later years as time progressed, it was decided to reenter into 'The Golden Circle' ; hence 'Waimarino Shears' came about. Names like Edmonds, Rapana, Mowatt, Elers, Urwin, Metekingi, Halford, Jensen, Condon and Pearce are but a few of the top competitors. All played a part in forming and running 'The Waimarino Shears Committee' of today. "Thanks to all our sponsors from within the Waimarino, we are able to maintain excellent relations with all who contribute towards making 'The Waimarino Shears' a most successful day," said organisers.