When you have more than 44 years of experience, shearing sheep while blindfolded comes easily.
At the 150th South Otago A&P Show on Saturday, Bruce Walker showed his mettle by doing just that as part of a shearing demonstration at the sesquicentennial celebrations.
The shearing demonstration was just one of many at the 150th show.
Many years of experience meant performing the task without being able to see was not as difficult as it might appear.
He had learnt how to predict the shape of the sheep using touch and feel.
"It’s all about control," he said.
It was important to get the sheep into a good position, he said.
The shearing demonstration also featured a vintage set of clippers as part of the historical focus of the 150th show.
Mr Walker said there was a good crowd at the show.
South Otago A&P Society president Jim Berney said he was overwhelmed by the response of the community. He was honoured to be a part of the "historic day" in South Otago.
"It’s been a very special show," he said.
The society had aimed to have a vintage and historical theme to go with the 150th show celebrations.
Mr Berney was pleased the rain held off and the wind died down on Saturday afternoon.
The winner of the Show Queen competition was Ireland Jacobs.
She was presented with the crown by last year’s show queen, Caitlin Gouman.
About 3500 visitors from all over the country thronged the showgrounds to see the animal displays, equestrian competitions, vintage machinery and stalls.
