A YOUNG ewe outshone the rams in the South Suffolk judging at the Royal Melbourne Show this morning.
Barry and Jill Shalder’s 12-month-old entry from their Willow Drive stud at Derrinallum caught the judge’s eye thanks to her femininity.
“She handles very well, and she’s got muscle,” judge Dianne Huett, Deloraine, Tas, said.
“She will prove to be a very good breeder.”
The winning ewe had previously been awarded the champion ewe title at the 2015 Sheepvention at Hamilton, as well as reserve champion at this year’s Australian Sheep & Wool Show at Bendigo.
Mr Shalders prepared 11 sheep for the show altogether, and collected several broad-ribbons, including champion ram, champion ewe, reserve champion ewe, and most successful exhibitor.
“I wasn’t surprised the ewe won over the ram…she’s got a fair bit of presence,” he said.
“I’ll keep her as a breeder now.”