The annual event boasting $20,000 in prizes, is a chance for farmers to benchmark their flocks against others at local and national levels.
It’s also a chance to compare different farming systems and learn from other competitors as well as the judging panel, national competition convener Stephen Rabbidge said.
“All farmers are invited to enter. Give it a go – what better way to assess your progress.”
Rabbidge said farmers’ achievements deserve more recognition.
The annual contest continues to gain momentum in promoting excellence in the sheep industry.
“It is now more important than ever for sheep farmers to have an efficient and profitable business.
“This competition provides the ideal opportunity for entrants to compete and compare to ensure future success,” Rabbidge said.
NZ Sheep Breeders’ Association general manager Greg Burgess said the success of the competition is due to the commitment of volunteers and support from sponsors.
The competition identifies top operators and rewards excellence with the objective being for farmers to select flock replacements likely to be most productive and profitable over their lifetime.
Last year there was a good response from North Island farmers and organisers are hoping that continues this year.
“We look forward to receiving entries from all over NZ,” Burgess said.
Entries close on March 15 for the North Island and March 25 in the South Island.
Judging will take place over the following couple of months before the national breed winners, special awards and overall winner are announced at the awards dinner.
Entrants must have 90% of replacement ewe hoggets with a minimum of 300 wintered.
Ewe hoggets must be bred by the exhibitor with all breeders of flock hoggets from commercial sheep eligible to enter the competition.
Points are awarded for flock performance, phenotype and breeding objectives.
The national judges are Charlie Seymour, Dave McKelvie and Keith Hamill.
The competition concludes later in the year with a field day on the national winner’s property.
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Email greg@nzsheep.co.nz or go to www.nzsheep.co.nz
