2026 Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition Judges
Meet the Judges
In 2026, the Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition will be judged prior to the Melbourne Royal Show on Friday 11 September.
Recognised as one of Australia's premier fleece competitions, the Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition attracts entries from across the country and showcases the quality, innovation and diversity of the Australian wool industry. From superfine Merino fleeces through to long wool and specialty breeds, the competition highlights excellence in wool production and presentation.
Entrants' fleeces will be assessed by a highly respected panel of judges whose combined experience spans wool growing, sheep breeding, wool classing, wool marketing and industry leadership. Their extensive knowledge and practical expertise ensure every fleece is evaluated to the highest standard, recognising the attributes most valued by today's wool industry.
We invite you to learn more about the accomplished judges who will preside over the 2026 Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition below.
Tamara Pabst
A Wool Technical Officer with AWN and has been involved in the wool industry for several years.
Over the past three years, she has judged numerous fleece competitions across North-East Victoria and New South Wales, building extensive experience in fleece assessment and wool quality. Prior to joining AWN, Tamara spent three years stewarding at the Benalla Fleece Judging Competition, providing her with a strong foundation in fleece competition standards and procedures.
She particularly enjoys the diversity of wool types produced across different regions and values the opportunity to see how woolgrowers manage seasonal challenges while continuing to present high-quality fleeces year after year
Susan Campbell-Wright
Susan brings a wealth of experience in fibre arts and agricultural competitions to the Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition judging panel. An accomplished handcrafts judge specialising in spinning and weaving, Susan has a strong appreciation for wool and its many uses.
She has provided more than 20 years of outstanding service to Melbourne Royal's Art, Craft & Cookery competitions as an exhibitor, steward, committee member and former Chair of the Committee.
With a background in heritage, education and the arts, Susan enjoys researching and recreating historical handcrafts and restoring gold rush-era buildings.
A dedicated CFA firefighter, she was awarded the RASV President's Medal in 2022 in recognition of her significant contribution and service.
Rob Ellis
Rob has been involved in fleece judging for more than 20 years and brings extensive experience to the judging panel. Throughout his career, he has judged at agricultural shows and fleece competitions across Australia, from local events to major exhibitions.
He has also served as Chief Judge at the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) on three occasions, reflecting his respected standing within the industry. Recently retired after 48 years in the wool industry, Rob remains passionate about supporting agricultural shows through fleece judging.
By his estimate, 2026 marks his 25th year judging at the Melbourne Royal Show, bringing a wealth of knowledge and industry experience.
Paul Ferronato
Paul is a Processed Wool Manager at United Wool Company and brings valuable industry knowledge to the Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition judging panel.
Paul has been involved in judging lamb's wool at the Melbourne Royal Show for more than 10 years and continues to enjoy being part of this prestigious event.
Through his role in the processed wool sector, he has developed strong expertise in wool quality and assessment and remains committed to supporting excellence within the Australian wool industry.
Candice Cordy
Candice brings a wealth of practical industry experience to the Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition judging panel. As a Wool Account Manager with Nutrien Ag Solutions, she works closely with woolgrowers across Central Victoria, providing advice on sheep breeding, ram selection, wool preparation and marketing.
Candice is also the Convenor of the Australian Fleece Competition, the largest fully measured fleece competition in the world.
Having grown up on her family's Merino property, she has been involved in the agricultural industry throughout her life and continues to enjoy the hands-on aspects of sheep and wool production.
Eamon Timms
Eamon brings extensive wool marketing and fleece appraisal expertise to the Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition judging panel.
As Brokerage Manager and Wool Technical Manager with Fox & Lillie Rural, he works closely with woolgrowers across Australia, providing advice on wool quality, preparation, marketing and valuation.
Eamon has developed a strong reputation within the wool industry through his practical knowledge of wool production and broad understanding of domestic and international wool markets. Passionate about helping producers maximise the value of their clip, he advocates for quality-focused production and informed marketing decisions.
His industry experience and technical expertise provide a valuable perspective when assessing fleeces and recognising excellence in wool production