On with the show

FEW events capture the spirit of our region quite like the Bellarine Agricultural Show.

Held annually in Portarlington, this beloved event is a highlight for locals and visitors, bringing together families, farmers, and producers to celebrate our rich agricultural traditions.

In 2025, the show returns over the Labour Day long weekend with the theme: ‘All Things Wool’.

Geelong has a deep and long-lasting connection to the wool industry, and this year’s theme is both a tribute to our past and a nod to the industry’s enduring importance to our economy and identity.

Agricultural production is a very important contributor to the Australian economy and is a key industry in many regional and rural areas.

The total value of agricultural output in the Greater Geelong region is roughly $120 million

per year.

With its fertile land, the Bellarine Peninsula is crucial in maintaining Geelong’s agricultural strength.

Events like the Bellarine Agricultural Show celebrate this contribution and educate the next generation about the importance of sustainable farming.

It is often said that Australia was built on the sheep’s back, and Geelong is a prime example.

Sheep farming began in Geelong in 1835, and the first of many woollen mills opened here in 1868.

For many years, Geelong was known as the ‘wool centre of the world’ and was a critical hub for the Australian wool industry, processing and exporting fleece from Victoria’s Western District to international markets.

The CJ Dennys & Co Woolstore, built in 1872, was one of the first locations to broker wool sales and is now home to one of our region’s treasures – the National Wool Museum.

The museum preserves this history, showcasing wool’s role in shaping our city and nation.

The museum’s ongoing exhibition On the Land: Our Story Retold is a multi-award-winning exhibition that tells the Australian wool story for the modern-day visitor.

This year’s Bellarine Show theme aligns perfectly with this rich heritage and celebrates wool’s journey from paddock to product.

Visitors to the Bellarine Agricultural Show can expect a day packed with entertainment, education, and hands-on activities.

Running on Sunday, March, 9, this year’s attractions will include agricultural competitions featuring some of the region’s finest livestock, produce, and local crafts; family-friendly activities including carnival rides, animal nursery, working dog trials, local food stalls, and tractor and trailer rides; a Vintage Machinery Expo where you can relive the past and explore many items from yesteryear, including vehicles, farm machinery and tools; sheep shearing and wood chopping demonstrations; and dog jump and gumboot toss competitions.

Beyond the fun and festivities, events like the Bellarine Agricultural Show remind us of the importance of supporting local farmers and producers.

The show provides an opportunity to connect with the land, appreciate where our food and fibre come from, and celebrate the industries that have shaped our community.

Whether you’re a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, this year’s Bellarine Agricultural Show is the perfect place to experience that history firsthand. Mark your calendars and join in the celebration.

This event is proudly supported by the City of Greater Geelong. For more information, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/events

Cr Rowan Story

Murradoc Ward,

City of Greater Geelong