CLOSE to a third of the large Ewan MacInnes Pavilion was taken over by some 200 students at the 2016 Rabobank Merino National Sheep Show and Sale.
They were attracted to three big contests signifying the great interest in Australia’s Merino industry from the state’s youth according to one of the judges, Tony Inder, Allendale stud, Wellington, - the Schools Merino Wether Challenge, Junior Sheep Judging contest and Junior Fleece Judging.
Interest in the Schools Merino Wether Challenge increased to 27 high schools with 138 wethers in 46 teams of three were split into two sections – fine wool and medium/strong wool with 17 and 10 teams respectively.
“Teams were assessed on the estimated highest earning capability over five years from meat and wool,” Mr Inder said.
“Plus points are awarded for sheep handling, student dress and presentation, and knowledge of the Merino industry.”
Gaining the combined highest value at $1222.41 or $407.47 was Lake Cargelligo High School Team 2 of medium/strong wethers with Dunedoo High’s Team 1 second at $1184.93 and Lake Cargelligo’s Team 1 third at $1164.40.
In fine wool Forbes High School Team 1 won with $1127.09 or $375.69 with Yanco Agricultural High second at $1094.82 and Gunnedah High third at $1064.01.
“If we could encourage just 10 per cent of these students to continue in our industry, it would be so fantastic for the future of Merinos,” Mr Inder said.
