Something to write (away) about.
I was asked last week to go to the Wollangarra Open Day and spin in the inaugural Sheep to Shawl Competition, and ageed on the spot as I will spin under any conditions, the idea of a Sheep to Shawl intrigued me, as I have competed in an International Wool Challenge (Back to Back) 9 times now and love it and I had heard of Wollangarra and was keen to see it.
I tried to get a team together, but no-one from our Group was able to go that day, so our team was me and daughter Margie.
We arrived at the carpark, loaded up with spinning wheel, accessories and lunch (not needed as it turned out, as the food was plentiful and the billy on the boil all day) and headed in to Wollangarra. A shuttle service transported us the 1.7 kms to the river and then came the most exciting bit – crossing the Macallister River on the flying fox, which is the only way in for visitors.
That hurdle passed, we walked up to the Homestead and set up with the other team on the veranda, and were introduced to our other member, Barb.
There followed a great day in perfect weather,
plied with tea, cheerful support and friendly
interaction with the other team.
Our shawl was designed by Barb and Margie and finished just before the cut-off point – in time for us to watch some enthusiastic cross-cut sawing before our prize was awarded – Margie, after 4 hours of hard knitting, got the boot! (It did have a mint plant in it)Barb and I were presented with Wollangarra red and bottled plums, and another team member, Marcus, with more red.
Then back over the flying fox, teeth gritted, and the drive home though the beautiful scenery of the area – mountains ranges and lush spreading river flats dotted with sleek and fat cows and calves.
A really good day.
The finished shawl - washed and dried and in need of only a stitch or two before sending off to Wollangarra for display.