The 2026 Campbell Town Show once again brought together some of the finest wool growers in the country, with fleeces on display that represent not only exceptional genetics and preparation, but years of careful husbandry. Among this year’s standout results was Snowhill, awarded the Vitale Barberis Canonico Wool Trophy for its outstanding fleece in a highly competitive field. Behind the win is the Scott family, first-generation farmers who have built their flock and farm with a strong shared passion for wool growing since purchasing Snowhill at Royal George in 2023, alongside their property Myrtlewood in the Northern Midlands. Many Tasmanian Wool Centre visitors will also recognise family member Madeleine Scott from our retail team, where she helps share the story of wool with customers from across Tasmania and beyond. We spoke with Madeleine about the experience and what this recognition means for her and the Scott family.
What did it feel like to stand in the ring and hear Snowhill called out among such a strong line-up of superfine fleeces?
Absolute shock and surprise!
It is such an honour knowing the calibre of fleeces that entered this competition and the work that goes into producing them.
The fleece was recognised for its exceptional soundness, uniformity and character. What goes into achieving that level of quality at farm level throughout the year?
Understanding that providing that type of fleece requires input from a whole team across the whole year, from each family member to our wonderful shearing/wool handling crew, to our exceptional wool brokers and finally the very special Saxon Merino sheep. They are not suitable for every enterprise, but with the type of country we are fortunate to have a Snowhill, they do well. Careful breeding and classing ensures continual improvement of the flock.
You work in the retail space at the Tasmanian Wool Centre and also live the wool-growing story at home. How do those two worlds connect for you week to week?
I am in the enviable position of enjoying both ends of the supply chain, from wool production to wool retail. Having a passion for the raw material makes it a joy to sell the gorgeous woollen products available at the TWC! I also enjoy meeting woolgrowers from around Australia, who will often call in just to chat about wool; something I love doing!
The judges described the standard this year as extremely high. From your perspective, what stood out about the broader quality of fleeces on display at Campbell Town?
I am always amazed by the variation across the different exhibit classes and impressed with the fleece preparation. An enormous amount of effort goes into the fleece display and is a credit to all growers, the stewards and fleece competition conveners. It is my favourite place to be at the show!
Outside of the results and ribbons, what’s one moment from show day that really stayed with you? Something unexpected, personal, or memorable?
Oh, so hard to choose just one! Of course I loved the AWI Fashion Parade; always a show highlight! Probably for me, a real thrill was seeing the new area for the junior judges competitions. This year saw record entries of young sheep and fleece judges vying for the chance to represent Tasmania at nationals. Along with the schools wool handling competition in the fantastic new shearing shed facility, the future looks bright with the young people getting excited about opportunities in the wool industry.
Madeleine Scott accepts the award - Photo courtesy of Picture Haus
Madeleine looks over the entries - Photo Courtesy Picture Haus