Riverina Merino 2008

President of Riverina Merino, Chris Bowman ‘Uardry Stud’ Hay, says there will be a great opportunity for sheep breeders interested in seeing the future of Merino wool and meat production at this year’s Hay Merino Sheep Show on Saturday 2 June where the industry’s best young rams will be on display.

Mr Bowman also said that last year the top young rams with lamb’s teeth at 12 months were around 106kg with wools of 18.5 – 20 micron and comfort factor of 99-100%. Many of these rams were made available at the Spring Ram Sales for breeders to source the best genetics available.

Recent reports that agricultural produce including grain, wool and meat will be in strong demand following the resources boom, illustrates that with good seasons animal and grain production has a very bright future.

The ram breeders of the Riverina have made large genetic gains in recent years with reduction of around 2 microns, high comfort factors whilst maintaining fleece weights on large framed animals for both re-stockers and prime lamb breeders. Selection for constitution, body weight and fertility has also been paramount in particular over recent years.

The Riverina Merino does truly provide profitability for the Merino and Dual-Purpose breeder.

Mr Bowman said gross margins on a flock shearing 7-8kg @ 600c + greasy, rearing a ewe/wether lamb for shearing and sale would once again put the Riverina Merino in front in overall productivity and profitability.

The Silver Jubilee of The Riverina Ram of the Year sponsored by Elders with prize money of $2000 will be judged at around 1pm. Also a trip to NZ to study the sheep and wool industry is the prize for the winner of the Pennefather Junior Judging, kindly sponsored by Landmark. The winner of the Noel Reid Award for the Young Riverina Ambassador proudly sponsored by Merial receives a one week Leadership Course at Marcus Oldham College.

Stud sheep that will be on display in the Riverina Merino marquee on show day will include Woodpark Poll, Uardry, Sims Uardry, Pooginook, Boonoke, Poll Boonoke and Wanganella.

Entry forms for the awards can be obtained by contacting Riverina Merino on (02) 6959 1180.

Riverina Merino has a local Spring Ram Sale Calendar beginning in September. There is also a free annual booklet and newsletter and a website displaying the latest in show and sale results.