Entries Open Soon for 2026 Blue Ribbon Competitions
05 Mar 2026 / Melbourne Royal Competitions, Melbourne Royal News
There’s nothing like the thrill of winning at the Melbourne Royal Show - from elite livestock to champion riders, skilled woodchoppers to passionate artisans.
It’s time to plan your entry and be part of the excitement of this year’s Show, taking place from Thursday 24 September to Sunday 4 October at Melbourne Showgrounds.
Melbourne Royal All Breeds Championship Show (Dogs)
With over 5,000 classes and 200 breeds on show, the Melbourne Royal All Breeds Championship Show offers exhibitors a chance to benchmark their breed against the best, judged by a panel of international experts.
The Action Dog Program – featuring Obedience, Agility, Jumping and more – will test skill and stamina.
Give the next generation a head start! Participate in our competitions and youth-focused events, fostering a love for the sport.
Entries open: 27 May 2026
Entries close: 4 August 2026 (Championship) and 18 August 2026 (Puppies)
Competition dates: 24 September – 4 October 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Dog Competition page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Art, Craft & Cookery Competition
From handmade lace to show-stopping cakes, the Art, Craft & Cookery Competition celebrates creativity in all forms. With over 550 classes across traditional and contemporary crafts, there’s space for seasoned makers and first-time exhibitors alike.
Entries open: 3 June 2026
Entries close: 19 August 2026
Judging: September | On display during the Show
Visit the Melbourne Royal Art, Craft & Cookery page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Poultry Competition
Returning this year is one of Australia’s most prestigious poultry competitions. The Melbourne Royal Poultry Competition is where breeders bring their best birds to be judged across a full range of classes.
The competition also includes the Victorian Ag Youth Judging Competition, fostering the future of poultry expertise.
Entries open: 24 June 2026
Entries close: 12 August 2026
Competition dates: 22 – 23 September 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Poultry page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Sheep Competition
Backed by over 150 years of tradition, the Melbourne Royal Sheep Competition provides exhibitors the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore the latest seedstock marketing, and share their passion for sheep breeding at Melbourne Royal Show. The 2026 Feature Breed is Poll Dorset.
Entries open: 11 June 2026
Entries close: 6 August 2026
Competition dates: 24 – 26 September 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Sheep page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition
The Melbourne Royal Fleece Competition showcases the finest fleece from across southeast Australia. From ultra-fine Merino to lustrous Lincoln, this is a celebration of quality and craft in wool production.
Entries open: 16 June 2026
Entries close: 7 August 2026
Competition date: 11 September 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Sheep page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Beef Cattle Competition
A cornerstone of the Melbourne Royal Show, the Beef Cattle Competition brings together leading studs, exhibitors and junior handlers. This is where livestock excellence and innovation meet tradition.
Entries open: 10 June 2026
Entries close: 30 July 2026
Competition dates: 30 September - 4 October 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Beef Cattle page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Beef Carcase Competition
Focused on carcase quality and yield, the Melbourne Royal Beef Carcase Competition is judged by Meat Standards Australia and rewards precision from paddock to plate. Competitors of the School’s Competition will receive invaluable practical experience and industry exposure.
Entries open: 27 May 2026
Entries close: 16 July 2026
Competition dates: 26 – 27 September 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Beef Carcase page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Alpaca Competition
The premier Victorian showcase for Suri and Huacaya breeds, the Alpaca Competition offers both Halter and Fleece judging. Exhibitors can compete in a professional environment designed to highlight quality and provide valuable networking opportunities.
Entries open: 26 June 2026
Entries close: 6 August 2026
Fleece Judging: 9 September 2026
Halter Judging: 26 – 27 September 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Alpaca page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Horses in Action Competition
With thousands of entries across 250 classes, the Horses in Action Competition brings together elite horses and riders from across the country. From the prestige of the Garryowen Equestrienne Turnout to the power of the Prince of Wales Cup, this competition is the pinnacle of equestrian excellence.
Nominations open: 28 April 2026 – 7 July 2026
Competition dates: 24 September – 4 October 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Horses in Action Competition page to learn more.
Melbourne Royal Woodchop Championships
A Show staple for over 100 years, the Melbourne Royal Woodchop Championships showcase strength, stamina and sheer determination. Showcased over four days, and with over 40 events, competitors go axe-to-axe in hopes of claiming the Golden Axe.
This year, the competition will feature scheduling enhancements and increased exhibitor focus, alongside more competitive divisions and handicaps, ensuring accessibility for all.
Entries open: 24 March 2026
Competition dates: 24 – 27 September 2026
Visit the Melbourne Royal Woodchop page to learn more.
