Every June long weekend Merriwa comes alive with market stalls, street entertainers, rides, exhibits, competitions demonstrations and the grand parade – which is headed-up by the famous Running of the Sheep in their red socks. This is a fun-packed family event that is not to be missed.

For more than thirty years the festival has honoured the great wool tradition of the region and showcased “life on the land”.

The event focusses on community, family and the rich agricultural history of the region. From its humble beginnings, the festival now attracts in excess of 6,000 visitors who are treated to traditional country hospitality

It all began in 2001 when Upper Hunter stockmen competed in the Man from Snowy River Stockman’s Challenge in Corryong Victoria. Enthused by the concept, volunteers formed the King of the Ranges Stockman’s Challenge with a mission to preserve and bring to public attention the traditional skills of Australian stockmanship and bushcraft.

The inaugural event was held in 2004 in the historic Upper Hunter township of Murrurundi and where in 2024, King of the Ranges will celebrate 20 years of heritage Stockman’s Challenges.