The high-performing potential of East Gippsland’s Merino industry was on full display at the East Gippsland Field Days on April 10, as the final shearing of a three-year wether trial reached its conclusion.
The trial, which evaluated sheep under identical management conditions to identify top-performing bloodlines, yielded impressive results. This year’s clip saw wethers cut an average of 1.9kg more wool than the previous year.
Garry Davidson, president of the association and a local producer from Walpa, said the results highlight the critical link between nutrition and wool production.
“The data really shows the impact that high-quality nutrition has on a Merino enterprise,” Mr Davidson said.
“Keeping the wethers in peak condition allowed them to express their full genetic potential, which is exactly what these trials are designed to demonstrate.”
The competition was fierce across the eight teams entered by seven regional producers. Sheep were evaluated on both wool weight and quality, while producers also tested their classing skills by ranking teams from most to least profitable using micron data and visual assessments.
Final Standings:
– 1st: Garry Davidson (Walpa) – Grassy Creek bred wethers, average fleece value $110.49.
– 2nd: Trevor Bennet (Everton Upper) – Bindawarra bred wethers, average $104.65.
– 3rd: Darcy Fitzgerald (Omeo) – Roseville Park bred wethers, average $104.49.
In addition to the team win, Garry Davidson claimed the Freeman-Lett Memorial Trophy for the most valuable individual fleece. The standout fleece weighed in at 7.5kg with a 17.5 micron, valued at $122.81.
With the current trial concluded, the association is now calling for entries for a new three-year trial set to begin on June 1, 2026. New and existing Merino breeders are encouraged to participate to further broaden the comparative data available to the local industry.
Beyond data collection, the trial aims to foster community within the sheep
industry. Future plans for the trial site include shearer training days and working dog clinics.
