SEVENTEEN exhibitors were entered in the Poll Dorset classes at Sheepvention but few could take the limelight from Leenala Poll Dorset stud, Naracoorte, South Australia.
Regarded as one of the stud's most successful outings, Leenala rams were sashed senior champion, junior champion, grand champion and supreme Poll Dorset before taking home the most successful exhibitor award.
The supreme exhibit was awarded to a self-bred Leenala 2013 June-drop ram, who recorded a birthweight of 0.5 kilograms, post weaning weight 7.9kg, Pfat 0.8, carcase +170.98 and trade value of $107.58.
Leenala principal Alan Schinckel said greater preparation for the earlier show and favourable conditions in SA put the 17-strong show team in good stead.
"Apart from our genetics, this year we have had a better season and looked after the rams much better, which has been a big help in our results," he said.
The judges commended the young ram's length, muscle, hindquarter and overall appearance.
In the ewe section, Shellal Poll Dorset stud, Hawkesdale, was awarded champion ewe and reserve for Shellal 174-13 and Shellal 9-13, respectively.
The champion ewe went on to be sashed second in the interbreed supreme short-wool event.
The South West-based stud exhibited 19 sheep and were awarded 21 ribbons, including Breeders Group of one ram and two ewes, who placed second in the interbreed short-wool group.
Annabelle Beale
National Sheep & Wool Writer for Fairfax Agricultural Media
National Sheep & Wool Writer for Fairfax Agricultural Media
