Breeders buoyant at sheep show

Kendall O'ConnorGreat Southern Herald

Katanning was the centre of all things Merino last Thursday with the annual Rabobank Sheep Show.

This year, organisers included a sheep expo, showcasing an array of breeds.

The expo included Merino studs, Poll Dorset studs, Dohne, White Suffolks, Prime South African Meat Merinos, Texels, composites and Dorper studs.

Bridgetown Dorper Stud breeders Collin and Susan Jeffery exhibited their sheep at the show and said they were willing to sign up for next year.

Mr Jeffery described the expo as a "great opportunity" and "important" for the sheep industry.

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"It shows how the Merino industry is looking forward and that they are treating the sheep industry as something important as a whole," he said.

"With our breeds as Dorpers, we have been on the outskirts for quite a while."

The Jefferys packed up their stall at the end of the day with hopes of returning to the sheep show next year

"People who wouldn't normally come to the show came to meet us specifically as they know our breed was here," Mr Jeffery said.

"It's definitely got legs and we hope it happens again next year."

Scott Crosby, of Nyabing's St Quentin Merino Stud, said the expo gave access to potential new markets.

"So far we have had a few commercial producers stop by - they think it's great; they want a one- stop shop without having to travel hundreds of kilometres. They like the concept," he said.

"This sort of thing happens all over the Eastern States."

"The crowds have easily doubled this year, the carpark is packed."

Sheep industry figures and members were all brought under the one area, giving the chance to talk about the sectors pressing issues.

Fin Leach, of Glenlea Dohne Stud, also had sheep showing at the expo, and said the event provided the chance to network with other breeders on the industry's outlook.

Among the recent V and V Walsh agreement, prices were a key talking point on the day.

"Prices at the moment are good and they need to stay there for the long term to get people moving back into the sheep industry again," Mr Leach said.

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