Most even commercial flock takes the win for Parkes For the first time in 26 years, a Parkes representative has claimed the win at the Central West Association of Agricultural Shows Maiden Merino Ewe Competition. Judi and Ray Unger, “Waratah”, Peak Hill, were one of six finalists from the Parkes, Condobolin and Trundle competitions on display, under the scrutiny of judges Richard Chalker, Lach River, Darbys Falls, and David Zouch, Bigga. Less than a week prior, they had placed second in the Doug Bicket Memorial Merino Ewe Competition, earning themselves a spot in the regional championship. The Unger’s run 1300 sheep in an organic farming system, which they’ve been running for more than 30 years. They had a run of June/July-drop ewes on display, presenting a 20.5-micron fleece. Utilising Westray Park genetics, the flock is classed by Ray Cannon. David Zouch passed comment during the competition, noting the high quality and productivity of the flock. “This is one of the most even commercial flocks I’ve seen for a long time,” he said. “It’s a credit to yourself and your classer, especially considering you’re not using chemicals. It’s unbelievable.” Richard agreed and added that the Unger’s presented a magnificent line of young ewes. “For someone to do what you’re doing and put this sort of sheep out while sticking to this accreditation, it is unbelievable.” Judges placed the Stuckey family, “Corella”, Condobolin, who had won the Don Brown Memorial Merino Ewe Competition, in second place. They had May to Julydrop, Belswick-blood ewes on display, classed by Chris Bowman, Hay. “They’re a good, easy-care commercial flock that have a wool that hasn’t been overdone,” Richard said. “They’ve got good size and depth.” 26th Central Western Association of Agricultural Shows Maiden Merino Ewe Competition | Thursday 27 February 2025 Photo captions. 1– Judi and Ray Unger, “Waratah”, Peak Hill, pictured in their flock of Westray Parkblood ewes during the Doug Bicket Memorial Merino Ewe Competition where they placed second and earned their spot in the annual Central Western Association of Agricultural Shows Maiden Merino Ewe Competition. Photo: Gary O’Brien. 2– Fred, David and Tom Stuckey, “Corella”, Condobolin, with classer Chris Bowman and Lance Haworth, Condobolin, at the Don Brown Memorial Merino Ewe Competition where they placed first. Photo: Kristen Frost. 1– 2– – 125 –
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