A groundbreaking achievement in the shearing industry was set yesterday as Nikki Lyons from Yass in southern New South Wales became the first female in the world to shear more than 500 Merino lambs in a single day, setting a phenomenal new benchmark.
In a grueling and intense nine-hour shearing effort on Glendemar Farm in Marnoo, owned by Ben and Cheryl Duxson, Lyons officially tallied 502 Merino lambs.
Lyons’ record, validated by the World Sheep Shearing Records Society, establishes the first accredited world women’s nine-hour Merino lamb shearing record. Her feat is a powerful demonstration of the skill, physical endurance, and determination of female shearers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The Tally: 502 Merino lambs shorn
The Time: Nine-hour world record attempt
The Place: Glendemar Farm, Marnoo, Victoria
Significance: Lyons surpassed the 500-mark, a number long considered a major milestone in high-volume shearing.
The New South Wales shearer, who had previously set the women’s eight-hour Merino lamb record in 2024, came to Marnoo specifically seeking the quality of sheep required to break the 500 barrier.
“Reaching 500 was our minimum goal, and I’m happy we brought it home for the team,” Lyons said, acknowledging the essential support crew around her. “This is a great benchmark for anyone wanting to come along and give it a crack in this category.”
Her achievement not only cements her status as a global leader in the industry but also highlights the professionalism and dedication of Australian shearers, encouraging more women to enter and thrive in the wool industry.
