The Hamilton/Ararat branches of the Australian Superfine Woolgrowers Association will hold the sixth annual re-union Dinner at Grange Burn Motel, Hamilton, on Saturday May 13.
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Before the dinner, two prominent local studs will open its gates to attendees.
On Saturday morning, the Mibus family of Glenara superfine Merino stud will welcome visitors.
Three generations have now grown superfine wool in the area. The property consists of 1032 hectares (2550 acres) on which they run 7500 sheep, some cattle and cropping to assist in feed requirements and pasture renovation.
Glenara will host morning tea, after which Marius Cuming from Australian Wool Innovation will speak on new product, research and animal husbandry funded by the organisation.
The second farm is Sierra Park, one of the oldest continual operating pure Saxon Merino studs in Australia. Lunch will be provided, and sheep and wool will displayed.
Before returning to Hamilton a short stop will be made at Pierrepoint Winery.
A highlight of the dinner will be the presentation by Brenda McGahan of the fourth annual ASWGA Fleece Competition.
The Champion fleece receiving the “Cleckheaton Grand Champion Trophy” proudly sponsored by Australian Country Spinners.
Last year’s winners Russell and Penny Hartwich from Kelseldale will be the feature farm on the Sunday. This stud was established in 1928 and is run by the third generation of the Hartwich family.
Situated in the Challicum Hills at Ballyrogan, the family had a pure Saxon flock until 1988 when Rockbank genetics were introduced.
Guest speakers commercial wool growers Sean and Leila McDougall will cover the topics of stock containment and electronic identification of animals.
Morning tea and lunch will be provided before attendees return to Melbourne.