Saturday March 1 2008 

NORTHLAND shearer Dane Philips found top gear to win at New Zealand’s greatest shearing contest in Masterton today, the Golden Shears 2008.
The lean lad from Kaiwaka held his own in the Junior Shearing final for shearers who have recorded a shed tally of up to 210 sheep in a nine-hour day.
Commentator Michael “Screamer” Maihi rated Philips style on the stand as he neared the finish on his fifth and final sheep.
“He’s punching into the money run now!” he said.
Philips finished first on the stands and the judging of his work for quality confirmed a win.
Local Matene Mason of Masterton was in second and southern man Chris McGregor from Gore placed third.
Tipene Te Whata from Tautoro, Raniera Hauiti of Danniverke and Bevan Guy from Kaeo followed in fourth, fifth and sixth respectively.
Action continues at the Golden Shears today with finals for various level events in shearing and woolhandling, culminating in shearing’s ultimate contest tonight, the Golden Shears Open Shearing Final.

For a full programme and live video action see www.goldenshears.co.nz.

For free images or further information contact the Golden Shears Media Group at goldenshears@pete.co.nz or phone 021 488 137 or 027 5788 137. International callers phone 006421 488 137 or 006427 5788 137.