Hello everyone, well another year has flown by, it seems the state’s seasonal conditions have not really changed from this time last year. Conditions in the south have improved slightly, (but it could be a long summer), the northeast again have had a well above average year with the west of the state very dry again. The sheep and lamb market has skyrocketed this year with prices at an all-time high. Those that have been lucky enough to hold numbers have enjoyed the ride, let’s hope these prices stick around. The 2025 Dohne ram selling period has had strong results with 476 rams offered, 454 sold to a 95% clearance. The top price this year of $8,000 was recorded for the Pye family from Calga, Coonamble. Macquarie topped at $5,500 and Gullendah was next at $5,000. Macquarie topped the highest average of $2,960 plus 100% clearance. They were closely followed by Gullendah with an average of $2,940 and another full clearance. The States overall average of $2,236 was up $400 on 2024. Continue reading →

Phillip became accredited as an Assessor for the Dohne Merino breed of sheep in 2004 and was widely respected for his adherence to strict standards of conformation and type. He was honoured by the Australian Dohne Breeders Association at a dinner in March 2025. Phillip was almost the classic definition of stoic. He had a terrible year health-wise this year, yet only a few weeks ago when we asked him how he was going his response was this: I’m still upright and breathing. It was good to see him encourage young people in the sheep industry, including his own granddaughters Georgia and Maddie. He will be missed by many people who had come to respect him. Continue reading →

September was a big month for Dohne Merino ram sales, with rams being sold across three states New South Wales, Western Australia and South Australia. The LambEx26 AMPC Carcase Showcase is now accepting Expressions of Interest. Continue reading →

The future is at the cross-roads for our Dohne Merino breed and indeed for the wool, sheep and farming industry in general. We have the opportunity to concentrate on promotions, education and a continued presence at AMSEA sites. I believe that the best way forward is to rely on the input of the next generation whose expertise lies in social media and new technology. We need their guidance to make the most of the opportunities available to reach the sheep breeders of the future. It is great news that Mitchell Applegate, Daniel Pumpa and Sandy Pye have joined us on Council as well as Matt Mills continuing on Promo Committee. I have been appointed for another year as President and Don Mills as Vice President. Continue reading →