We have been using Karawatha Park genetics for thirteen years. Initially it was a tentative move with only a small percentage of our rams coming from Karawatha. It soon became apparent that we were on to something. My curiosity came from a considerable amount of time spent wool classing where I learned the difference in wool types through observation. I always liked the fleece with a long, white, well-nourished staple and noted that they were usually heavier.

First it was the wool quality that was most evident with some beautiful soft, white, long stapled fleeces coming through. As confidence grew and the influence became greater we noticed that there was more consistency in all aspects of the sheep. Wool cut didn’t fall 30% because the year was dry, micron also stayed more or less the same with no big blow out in better seasons. Our yields are remarkably consistent and the average has not been below 60%, even when we had three consecutive years of 50mm or less rain. Staple length, tensile strength, colour and all the other characteristics are better. 2020 shearing saw ewes averaging 6kg even after the third terrible year.

Oakden Hills, where we run Karawatha park genetics, has managed to retain its full number of breeders during the dry with the oldest ewe being 6, even after the three driest years on record. This year the lambing looks to be exceptional with many multiple births.

Mulesing is now not considered essential with the 2019 drop not being mulesed.

Unmulesed wether lambs sold off shears this year for $153 on Auctions Plus with their older brothers averaging $166.

As time goes by, I expect the sheep to improve significantly as each generation builds on previous gains.

We have many wool lovers coming to see our wool at shearing and all go away having seen something special, many make repeat visits.

I recommend Karawatha Park to all serious wool and meat producers.

Bruce G Nutt
5 August 2020

 

Oakden Hills wool clip achieves record price

To view 2017 testimonial click HERE