By Colin MacGillivray

Representatives from more than 40 of Victoria’s top merino and poll merino studs will converge on Marnoo on Friday next week for the annual Victorian State Merino Field Day.

Organiser Trent Carter said the field day would be a must-attend event for merino breeders and agricultural enthusiasts of all kinds, with plenty of displays and more than 600 rams for sale.

Mr Carter said spirits were high ahead of the field day, with positive news for merino breeders.

“Things are looking good. Everyone’s season is starting in the right way from feedback I’ve received from all over the country,” he said.

“Everyone’s outlook on the year has certainly improved with the lift in the current mutton and lamb market, which is great.

“Pretty much all of the biggest and best Victorian stud producers will be there. We have nearly every stud that’s selling large numbers of rams attending the day.

“They’ll all have good examples and exhibits of their styles of sheep on offer for this year for everyone in springtime to top up and keep breeding merinos into the future.”

Mr Carter said a variety of caterers would give attendees plenty of eating options, while Marnoo Cricket Club representatives would operate a licensed bar.

He said agricultural displays would cover a range of topics.

“We have a wide variety of trade displays for livestock and grain handling, and sheds with other displays – everything is agricultural-based,” he said.

“Reps will be there to answer any questions on administering any drugs or any other questions on livestock health and husbandry. 

“There will be sheep-handling equipment. 

“There will be a wide variety of agricultural businesses there to help answer questions or demonstrate any new developments or technologies that could help assist people with their workload on the farm.”

Merino judges will crown the top sheep in the state from 2pm, with more than $3500 of gate prizes to be announced during judging. Mr Carter said all money raised from a $5 entry fee would go to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

“Hopefully everyone can work towards having a relaxing, educational and enjoyable day,” he said.

People can find more information by visiting www.facebook.com/Marnoostudbreeders.

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