A true Aussie champ!

Given recent sporting failures, particularly in the Ashes, Australia has been looking for a new hero. A fair dinkum Aussie who can inspire them, and who represents the best of Antipodean qualities.

Step forward Chris the sheep!

Overgrown Australian sheep Chris 'breaks world record'

An overgrown Australian sheep affectionately named Chris has set a new unofficial world record following a hair cut from five shearers.

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Inspirational!

National shearing champion Ian Elkins was urgently called in on Wednesday to tackle the mammoth merino.

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The second best Australian. After Chris of course.

Mr Elkins said he was proud Australia had claimed the title from New Zealand, likening it to "the rivalry on the rugby field".

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His pride is understandable, and is evidence of how important a moment this is for Australia.

In 2004, Shrek the New Zealand sheep was found after six years on the loose.

The animal - also a merino - later lost his giant 27kg (60lb) fleece in a televised shearing broadcast live around the world.

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Somehow, this global TV event passed me by.

Congratulations to Australia! And commiserations to New Zealand, but I'm sure you Kiwis will find a way to fight back from this low point.