There were so many mentions of “beautiful neck extensions” by the judge that exhibitors at last week’s NSW Dorset Championships at Cowra could have been forgiven for thinking they were at an alpaca show.
The Tasmanian judge, Julian Iles, Killara Poll Dorsets, Sorell, repeatedly singled out neck extension as one of the key traits he was looking for when choosing his class and broad ribbon winners.
The affable Tasmanian said he had been asked questions about his focus on neck extensions (along with other key traits) at the dinner during the championships.
“I like a little bit of neck for ease of lambing,” he said.
“I honestly believe if you have a good extended neck, if the ewe can get those front feet out and the head, they will lamb,” said.
“If they (lambs) are short necked there is too much coming through the pelvis and it’s often bigger,” he said.
Mr Iles’ views on necks are supported by the ram selection guide on the Australian Poll Dorset Association’s website.
It reads: “A smooth well laid in shoulder structure and neck set will reduce the risk of dystocia (lambing difficulty).
“During the birth process, square or blocky shoulders can inhibit the smooth movement of the shoulder of the lamb through the pelvis, leading to prolonged birth or death of the lamb.
“The shoulders of the ram should not be loose or wide on top and the topline should be straight from shoulder to tail.”
Mr Iles also said good neck extension allowed sheep to get their heads up and look like they were proud, whether they were in the paddock or parading in the judging ring.
He was surprised by the overall high quality of entries, particularly the ewes which he said were even right through the classes.
“They (ewes) are the backbone of your stud breeding flocks,” he said.
“The standard of sheep was very good, it was pleasing to see no sheep were ‘over done’,” he said.
Mr Iles said Poll Dorset stud breeders had been criticised for parading sheep that were “over fed” and were heeding the message.
“I was looking for length, smoothness, fine shoulder and they had to be good on their feet,” he said.
Mr Iles was surprised how few sheep were bad on their feet.
He had been told before he arrived in Cowra the NSW Dorset Championships were run in a laid-back, friendly atmosphere and he said he wasn’t disappointed.