THE TWO judges for the Peppin-Shaw ewe flock competition highlighted the need for commercial wool-growers to consider wool-quality traits such as handle, nourishment and crimp definition when classing ewes. At every property, Kob Russell, Mount Nelson, Tas., and Phillip Russell, Broomehill, WA, said there was an opportunity to improve handle and nourishment. This would in turn lift wool cut and slightly reduce fibre diameter. At times the judges' comments sparked considerable debate, especially withNSW Agriculture Hay sheep adviser and secretary of the competition organising committee, Bill Schumann, who argued that selection for fleece weight and lower fibre diameter was a proven way to lift productivity.
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