Shrek, the sheep celebrity.
Have you heard of Shrek the awol sheep? Back in 2004 he was found in a mountain cave after six years on the run. He sported a fleece of that was 27 kilo’s, that is six times the average from a merino and enough to make 20 men’s large suits. He evaded capture for six years, disappearing into the mountains hiding during the annual sheep round-ups.
Once found he became an instant celebrity. He was shorn on national television on an iceberg off the coast of Otago, traveled the world promoting New Zealand merino and raising money for charity. He commanded $16,000 as an appearance fee. Overall he raised $150,000 for charity and they estimated $100 million in publicity for wool exports.
Shrek passed away recently at the age of 16 years. His ashes will be spread over Mt Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak. He was a national celebrity here in New Zealand and will be missed. RIP Shrek.
