Of the association’s 19 members, 11 will be showing their stock at the Serpentine Recreational Reserve and four others will be exhibit stock on their own properties.
Robyn McGauchie from Terrick West Poll Merinos said the annual event was a good opportunity for farmers to inspect prospective lines of the breed for future production.
“It’s a day when people can walk around and look at the different sorts of genetics that we have, to see if they are suitable for purchase at future sales,” Mrs McGauchie said.
“Some of the studs are from outside the Loddon region and we think the more studs that get involved, the merrier.”
Members’ properties range in location from Ouyen, in the state’s west, to Everton Upper and Lexton.
“Each stud has their own individual sale throughout the year and our August one is the first in Victoria,” Mrs McGauchie said.
“It’s interesting how our sale can be a bit of a benchmark.”
Ross and Robyn McGauchie run the farm with their daughter Claire.
“Claire is taking over the breeding program of the stud, working closely with Ross on the day-to-day management,” Mrs McGauchie said.
Terrick West Poll Merinos will be displaying on their own property and will also exhibit some of their stock’s wool.
“We like to show that the Merino is a dual-purpose animal, especially these days as we are breeding them sizeable,” Mrs McGauchie said.
In addition to the annual competition for the best group of three ram lambs, this year will feature a memorial competition to commemorate the life of Doug Todd, a valued member of the group.
“Each breeder will have three paddock-run ewe lambs available for display and Doug’s wife and daughter will judge the best pen of three,” Mrs McGauchie said.
Visitors to the exhibition can enter their own selection for best rams with a chance to win a 500kg sheep feeder donated by event sponsor Paton Livestock Equipment.
The event’s field day book is available at: www.loddonvalleymerinos.org.au
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