SUFFOLKS GAIN GROUND

Press, 23 June 1978, Page 16

SUFFOLKS GAIN GROUND

The 1977-78 season has been a notable one for the Suffolk breed in New Zealand. It had the biggest increase in flock numbets of the 14 breeds administered by the New Zealand Sheepbreeders’ Association. Twenty-two new flocks were admitted in the most recent season and there was also an increase of 13 in flocks in the previous season. A statement issued on behalf of the breed committee, which recently held its annual gathering in Southland, says that one of the main factors in the increase in demand for Suffolk prime lamb sires has been the schedule with the Y grade lambs with light fat cover and killing out at up to 16kg commanding a premium. The statement says that when travelling throughout New Zealand during March, April and May the increased number of Suffolk rams being used over Romney, Corriedale and Border ewes was quite evident.

Three rams five ewes and seven lambs had also been exported to Australia.

With the increase in i flock numbers, the com- | mittee was conscious of i the need to maintain a . good quality sheep for the I New Zealand market and in this respect credit had to be given to the Suffolk breeders’ clubs throughout the country for the efforts that they had put in in organising field days and mini-shows. Through the agency of these clubs and a high standard of inspection the breed was growing in strength and I quality. It was also a good year for sales. The report says that at stud sales record prices were paid for both ewes and rams and flock ram fairs had also been most successful with Suffolks predominating and bringing “very good real-. istic prices.” At the annual meeting of the breed committee Mr P. Hishon, of Otautau, was re-elected chairman for a second year.