Heritage and Bullock Festival back for 2026

The 8th Heritage and Bullock Festival will once again showcase skills old and new related to rural life and give a welcome economic boost to the historic midlands town of Oatlands on August 8 and 9.

Nearly 8000 people attended last year, injecting about half a million dollars into the local economy and showcasing a kaleidoscope of arts, crafts, produce and niche skills.

The event hinges on local legend Brian Fish and his amazing bullock team, leading the parade from 10.30am each day down High St (best vantage point, not the recreation ground).

There’s special sheep from Tulach Glas Highland Farm, Collinsvale, standing in for their pregnant highland cows, steam engines, heritage displays, leatherworks, market stalls, and plenty of family fun.

Campbell Town artist Lee-Anne Peters will have her popular Clay Play Pile in the Gay Street Hall, Russ Fowler and his Muster Dog  and champion whipcracker Ben Hughes will both be putting on a show and beautiful sandstone blocks from Colbrook Sandstone and loads of wood will be auctioned off to raise money for the Midlands Multi-Purpose Health Centre.

Over two days, the History of Colour Symposium will bring together 10 leading practitioners and scientists specialising in the conservation and history of colour in historic interiors, providing practical advice for homeowners, heritage professionals and anyone interested in preserving built heritage.

And that’s only a sample of an action-packed program.

Event organiser Wendy Young said it’s nice to show off the heritage of the town and all the traditional skills, especially to younger generations.

“The town booms and there’s a real country flavour to all the attractions,” she said.

“Our draft schedule is now up on our facebook page and those who are attending can have a look and plan their visit and book in to special classes if necessary.”