FLEECE, FUN AND IRISH CHEER AT BOOROWA WOOLFEST
Wednesday, 7 October 2026
The streets of Boorowa were filled with Irish spirit, country hospitality and one of the region’s most unique rural traditions as visitors and locals joined together to celebrate the Boorowa Irish Woolfest over the October long weekend.
“The Boorowa Irish Woolfest is one of the Cootamundra electorate’s most vibrant and beloved events, bringing together the very best of our wool industry, Irish heritage and country spirit,” Ms Cooke said.
“It is fantastic to see locals and visitors descend on Boorowa to explore this unique celebration, support businesses and organisations and have a fantastic and entertaining weekend.”
Ms Cooke joined the crowds to soak up all that Woolfest has to offer ahead of the official opening.
“Woolfest is one of my favourite events to attend, and I know there are so many who share that view,” Ms Cooke said.
“Boorowa’s contribution to the Hilltops, the state, our nation and our global economy is extraordinary.”
Ms Cooke has applauded the wool industry's development and evolution and its ties to Boorowa.
“Over its history, the quality and the development of the wool industry that has come from here in Boorowa is up there with anywhere else in the world,” she said.
“Whilst we are here to celebrate and enjoy each other’s company with all of the food, the attractions and entertainment and the Running of the Sheep at the end of the day, this Festival is so important because it recognises, celebrates and acknowledges our achievements in agriculture.”
Ms Cooke paid tribute to agriculture and its integral role in the community across the Cootamundra electorate.
Deputy Consul General Ciaran Claffey attended the event for the first time and was impressed by how the Festival was embraced not only by the Boorowa and Hilltops communities, but also by visitors from the ACT and across the state.
“Sunday’s weather for the 2026 Boorowa Irish Woolfest was absolutely perfect and provided the ideal backdrop for a fantastic day of family fun,” Hilltops Council Events Coordinator David Munnerly said.
“One of the standout highlights was once again the iconic Running of the Sheep, which drew huge crowds and created a wonderful atmosphere right across Boorowa.”
David said the event attracted visitors from across the state to experience it and everything the Hilltops region has to offer.
“It was particularly pleasing to see so many return visitors, which is a testament to the unique charm of Woolfest and the warm hospitality of our community,” David said.
