| 21 Acquisition of Brookfield Romneys The focus of both studs aligns well targeting traits such as facial eczema (FE) tolerance, skin thickness, fertility, and growth. Karen Phelps RURAL PEOPLE » Mana Romney Stud Mana Romney Stud’s acquisition of Ross and Damien Humphrey’s Brookfield Romneys Stud, including 500 ewes and 125 ewe hoggets, represents a substantial expansion. Malcolm Wyeth, owner of Mana Romney Stud, sees this acquisition as a strategic step forward. “We’ve worked together with Ross and Damien in the past, swapping genetics, so we had a good idea of how their flock would perform in our operation. The Brookfield genetics are similar to what we had, with a comparable philosophy towards breeding.” The focus of both studs aligns well targeting traits such as facial eczema (FE) tolerance, skin thickness, fertility, and growth. This synergy is expected to accelerate genetic progress and offer more opportunities for ram purchasers. For the immediate future, Malcolm plans to keep the two flocks separate but will use three link rams between the studs to benchmark both operations. “Over time, we’ll amalgamate Brookfield into Mana Stud but for now, this approach allows us to maintain the distinct qualities of both lines while beginning the integration process.” The acquisition also brings changes to Mana Stud’s sales strategy. While the stud will continue with its on-farm sale of 50 top rams, selected for both phenotype and performance, the Brookfield rams will be sold privately, as they were under their previous ownership. This dual approach is expected to benefit clients, who can now access genetics from both studs in one location. “Clients will have the best from both flocks, and there will be more opportunities for purchasers,” says Malcolm. The annual on-farm sale is scheduled for the second Tuesday of November at 1 pm, with catalogues available online through Bidr and PGG Wrightsons. Mana Romney Stud has been making significant strides in key areas, particularly FE tolerance and skin thickness. “We’re testing at 0.52mg per kg of carcass weight for FE tolerance and have been testing for five years. We now have genetics from five to ten generations of FE tolerance history.” Skin thickness is another area where the stud has seen substantial progress. “By using superior rams, we’ve increased skin thickness by at least 0.5mm, which we’re finding has increased survivability and is giving us a far more robust sheep.” Malcolm says that breeding is a long-term endeavour. “It will be a matter of continuing to make good genetic progress, buying the right genetics to go across the ewe flock that have robust data (EBV) while maintaining phenotype, structure and feet, along with the other qualities we target.” Mana Romney Stud employs a rigorous selection process for its rams, utilizing SIL performance data with index ratings between 2000-3500, alongside careful evaluation of structural attributes. The stud’s breeding objectives are comprehensive, focusing on key traits that enhance overall flock performance and profitability. “We’re targeting ewes that can consistently produce and wean twins at 35-40 kg each,” Malcolm explains. “Survivability is crucial, as are good milking and mothering abilities. These traits ensure our ewes can raise robust lambs efficiently.” While meat production is a primary focus, Mana Romney Stud maintains a balanced approach aiming for good white fleeces that add value to the sheep. The stud’s commitment to fertility is evident in its impressive scanning rates of 180-200%. Carcass quality remains a priority for Mana Romney Stud selecting for rams with solid hindquarters and thick loins. This focus on carcass conformation ensures the lambs meet market demands for high-quality meat. Malcolm’s stud operation encompasses three units around Masterton, including the 158-hectare home farm at Gladstone, a 254-hectare farm at Wainuioru, and an 80-hectare unit at Mikimiki. The diverse farming operation runs 1500 Romney stud ewes, alongside other breeds and commercial sheep. 2024 RAM SALE Tuesday 12th November at 1.30pm (On Farm 127 Admiral Road Gladstone, Masterton inspect ion invi ted from 1.30pm) 50 Stud and Top Commercial Romney Rams to be sold at Auction. Romney and Romdale Rams available also by private sale. Rams selected on structural soundness and high performance data SIL Maternal worth indexes from 2500 to 3300 All enquiries: Please contact Malcolm Wyeth 027 252 7151 Tom Suttor / PGG Wrightson 027 446 9967 Simon Smith / PGG Wrightson 027 444 0733 FE tested rams at .52mg/kg LWT available for sale . / il l l KARERE Holdings Ltd Contact Warren D’Ath 06 354 8952 Romney & Perendale Stud Farm
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