BOOROWA IRISH WOOLFEST 2026
Upcycle Fashion Contest
Repurpose. Reimagine. Create.
The Boorowa Woolfest Upcycle Fashion Contest celebrates creativity, sustainability and a love of wool. Whether you’re an experienced maker or simply enjoy bringing new life to pre-loved materials, this is your opportunity to transform the old into something truly remarkable.
Entries must contain at least 50% wool fibre.
ABOUT THE CONTEST
Creativity meets sustainability through wool.
The Boorowa Irish Woolfest Upcycle Fashion Contest invites makers, students, designers and sustainability-minded creatives to transform existing wool garments and textiles into original fashion pieces.
Entrants are encouraged to reimagine pre-loved materials into something new — celebrating craftsmanship, imagination and thoughtful design while giving wool another life.
IMPORTANT COMPETITION REQUIREMENT
The 50% Wool Rule
At least 50% of the finished piece must contain wool fibre using existing garments, blankets, coats, skirts, jumpers or other wool-based materials.
The only new items permitted are thread, batting and interfacing.
COMPETITION CATEGORIES
Open to Emerging and Experienced Creators
Junior
11–14 Years
Encouraging young creatives to explore sustainable fashion and wearable art.
Intermediate
15–18 Years
A space for emerging makers and fashion students to showcase creativity and skill.
Open
Over 18 Years
Welcoming artists, designers, textile creators and sustainability lovers from across Australia.
COMPETITION DOCUMENTS
Download Everything You Need
Entry Form
Download the official competition entry form.
Download PDF →Rules & Conditions
Review all competition rules and eligibility requirements.
Download PDF →Judging Criteria
Understand how entries will be assessed and judged.
Download PDF →Sponsorship Opportunities
Support the event and connect with creative regional audiences.
Download PDF →WOOLFEST EXPERIENCE
Discover Creative Wool Transformations Throughout Boorowa
Competition entries will be displayed in participating Boorowa businesses leading up to and during the 2026 Boorowa Irish Woolfest, creating a town-wide showcase of creativity, sustainability and craftsmanship.
Visitors will be able to explore the entries while enjoying the many attractions, events and celebrations that make Boorowa Irish Woolfest one of regional Australia’s most loved festivals.
READY TO ENTER?
Be Part of Australia’s Sustainable Fashion Movement
Whether you are a student, designer, fibre artist, maker or sustainability lover, we invite you to transform something old into something extraordinary.
Join creators from across Australia and showcase your work during the 2026 Boorowa Irish Woolfest.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything You Need to Know
Do I need formal fashion training to enter?
No. The competition welcomes everyone from experienced designers and textile artists to students, hobby makers and creative beginners.
Can I enter from outside NSW?
Yes. Entries are welcome from across Australia.
What materials can I use?
Existing garments and materials must be upcycled into something new. At least 50% of the finished piece must contain wool fibre.
Can I use sewing, knitting or other techniques?
Yes. Entrants may sew, knit, crochet, felt, weave or use any creative construction method.
How will entries be displayed?
Entries will be showcased in Boorowa shopfronts leading up to and during the 2026 Boorowa Irish Woolfest celebrations.
When do entries close?
Entries close on 31 August 2026.
