Merino flock comp ready for take-off

After a 10-year hiatus, the competition has had a face-lift and will be held in March next year.

Entry is open to all commercial producers in the region and a $1500 cash prize is up for grabs for the winner.

Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) chief executive Mark O'Sullivan said a simplified entry process and judging criteria should encourage producers to enter.

"We have made it more convenient for all eligible Merino producers to compete for this prestigious award and take advantage of the opportunity to learn from and benchmark against fellow producers," Mr O'Sullivan said.

The competition has also locked in a judging panel with extensive knowledge of the industry.

Australian Merino Breeders' Association president Phil Toland, Toland Poll Merino, Violet Town, and Merino Victoria vice-president Michael Collins, Mount Bute, Linton, will head east to judge evaluate the entrants.

The program will also include an information seminar with guest speakers and the opportunity to hear judges' insights about their decisions and how to improve the bottom line of a Merino operation.

Sharing knowledge was a key objective of the competition, Merino Victoria president Frank Byrne said.

"It's an educational thing where you learn how people on different properties do different things to get the most out of their flock," he said.

"To improve you have to be constantly learning, and it's a great learning tool to keep building on what you know."

Registrations are now open until late January, with RASV members eligible for a $50 subsidy on the entry fee.

* More information: www.rasv.com.au/flockoftheyear