Forest Springs Merino Stud, Joel Joel, is taking part in its first ever off-property event at this year’s Marnoo Field Day.
Stud principal Bruce Dean is hopeful the event will increase exposure of his stud, that was only founded in 2009, and registered in 2012.
“We’ve only had on property sales, so I’m hoping attending the field day will get us more exposure, and turn into more ram sales,” Mr Dean said.
He’ll be showing off 20 of his 50 sale rams.
“Rams are exhibiting rich, well-nourished, bold crimping wools with exceptional carcase traits,” he said.
Last year, Mr Dean purchased semen from Gunallo 140007, the $30,000 top-priced ram at Classings Classic Ram Sale.
I’m hoping it will get us more exposure, and more ram sales.
- Bruce Dean, Forest Springs Merino Stud, Joel Joel
“It’s gone well so far, we’ve got lambs on the ground now and they’re looking good.”
He said that while he’s got a positive outlook now, he’s had a hard couple of years.
At last year’s ram sale in October, only their second ever sale, 21 of 40 rams sold to $2100, av $1066.
Their inaugural sale was more successful, with 22 of 35 sold to $2500, av $1228, but Mr Dean said he is looking to improve these figures.
“We’re only early days, but we’re hoping things will improve,” he said.
“Things didn’t take off last year, but we’ve had a different season this year and we’ve got a positive outlook.”
Mr Dean said he’ll be transporting the rams to Marnoo by truck, which is only about 50 kilometres away from his property in Joel Joel.
He said he’s hoping the rams will be on display on the main street in Marnoo, and if not, at the local football oval.
