Woolorama makeover plan takes event to next level

The Woolorama could be set for a major makeover, as part of Wagin’s Showground and Recreation Precinct Master Plan.

After attending Woolorama earlier this year, CCS Strategic consultants have put forward several suggestions to improve the event, including a welcome sign at the entrance, better camping and campervan facilities, more entertainment and more youth engagement.

CCS Strategic principal consultant Mark Casserly said Woolorama needed the “IKEA experience”, with additional engaging, hands-on stalls and activities.

Woolorama ground controller Paul Powell said although there were already several interactive displays, the layout could definitely be improved.

“I love the (IKEA experience) idea, it’s really important to make the event flow from one end to the other,” he said.

“I’d like to see the sheep pavilions move, so we could open that area up for more entertainment and family-orientated activities.

“Where the sheep currently come in is a logistical nightmare, you’ve got vehicles unloading stock and public walking past.”

CCS Strategic consultants said the skate park needed to be used, and proposed more wine tastings, coffee vans, food stalls and even jelly or mud wrestling.

The recommended additions were a part of an initiative to create and expand an entertainment and social area at Woolorama.

Mr Powell said he was not sure that mud or jelly wrestling was on the cards but he liked the idea of a central social hub. He also agreed that involving more youth in Woolorama was vital.

“You have to get them involved at any level so one day they will hopefully become stewards and then hopefully progress to the actual committee to keep the event going.”

Mr Powell said he was excited about the changes, and if every-thing went well, Woolorama could become as big as the Dowerin and Newdegate field days.

“It’s just a case of just waiting to see what the costings are,” he said.