Harking back to the late 18th century when established by the Ellman brothers in southern England, Southdowns are one of the oldest sheep breeds and their presence at Sydney showed their genetics are still relevant in an increasingly modernistic age.
Under judge Greg Hamilton, Windradyne Poll Dorsets, Canowindra, the grand champion Southdown ram was exhibited by Jake Webster, West-Ray stud, Bathurst.
His entry was successful in the one year old and under two year class and was considered by Mr Hamilton to fit the ideal type for which the shortwool breed is known.
He paraded the best all day, Mr Hamilton said. He is well-muscled, and even though he is a bit older [than the reserve], he has stretch and is good on his feet.
Mr Webster had success with his ram at the recent Canberra Royal, and the ram had also been the breed grand champion in Sydney in 2017.
The ram has recently been joined to 40 ewes.
The reserve grand champion, graduating from the pair of rams, showing milk teeth only, was shown by Ross Wilson, Cotties Run, Bathurst.
In the Production Class, Ross Wilson, Cotties Run, Bathurst was successful.
Competition in the female section was also intense, with the Southdown ewe grand championship being awarded to Ross Wilson, Cotties Run, Bathurst for his entry in the the pair of ewes, under one year and showing only milk teeth, ahead of the reserve grand champion shown by Jake Webster, West-Ray stud, Bathurst.
She is very nice ewe, neat and well balanced but still showing tremendous growth for a young ewe, Mr Hamilton said when commenting on the grand champion.
Her depth and length of body sets a great example for the breed, which has always been known for its ability to produce an excellent carcase under a variety of conditions.
Dr Wilsons Cotties Run-bred team of one ram and two ewes was the breed winner in the Peter Taylor group while West-Ray stud, Bathurst was the most successful exhibitor.
