Many years after attending my first ‘Bendigo’, that is The Australian Sheep and Wool Show, it’s kind of nice that it is still exciting.

This year I opted for the train trip up and back for the Friday. After staying the weekend for the past few years, I felt it might be time to give Damian a break, even though we’ve enjoyed every year. Limiting myself to just the day, also means I can keep a lid on things.

So I caught the 7:09am train from Southern Cross Station to Bendigo and was joined by equally excited friends. We also had a surprise friend join us, which made it even more fun!

And… I actually stayed within budget, sort of. I had no shopping list, because we all know ‘I don’t need anything’. But I still managed to find things, special things, that just had to come home with me.

Birds-eye view of the yarn: From left: Dyed by Hand: White Gum DK x 2 green hanks. Kathy’s Fibres 4 ply yarn in ‘Jewel’. Stranded in Oz Jezebel in 4 colours. Moseley Park MCN in a Neon Rainbow colour way.

Side view of the yarn

Some IxChel Camel Bunny Silk (and a pinkish braid not pictured here)

2 braids of Kathy’s Fibres BFL/Silk in her fabulous ‘Jewel’ colour way.

My train buddies said I was quite restrained, I’m not so sure. I think I came home with more than last year in terms of yarn and fibre. I love everything I got, and I hope to use some of it sooner rather than later.

There were so many highlights to the day, but mostly it was spending time with great friends and all the laughs. Congratulations to Chris for winning 2 first prizes for 2 of her competition entries. Her fabulous gradient dress was also part of the Wool Craft fashion parade at 11am. It was a wonderful moment and I’m so happy for her.

Until next year!