Milton Farmer Wins Supreme Champion Title at Kiwi Sheep Show

Owner Owen Booth from Milton has expressed his surprise after his ewe won the prestigious supreme champion title at a recent agricultural and pastoral (A&P) show in New Zealand. The ewe, which is a mix of Wiltshire and Shire breeds, triumphed over a competing Suffolk ram, marking a significant milestone in the realm of livestock competitions.

Speaking about the unexpected win, Mr. Booth stated, “She’s a good ewe, but I wasn’t expecting it.” He believes this victory is notable as it may be the first time a shedding sheep breed has claimed the supreme champion title at an A&P show in New Zealand. This achievement highlights the rising popularity of shedding sheep, which has led to an increase in entries at competitions across the country.

The ewe’s lineage includes a Wiltshire ram purchased from Andrew Heard of Waitohi Peaks in North Canterbury in 2024. Judges remarked that the ewe’s win was attributed to her strong conformation and the notable amount of meat on her hindquarters. Mr. Booth has been incorporating shedding Texel genetics into his breeding program over the past two seasons to enhance the meat quality of his sheep, emphasizing, “The back-end is the money end.”

As the demand for shedding sheep continues to grow, Mr. Booth’s victory serves as an encouragement for other breeders in the sector. The recognition at the A&P show not only reflects his dedication to improving livestock quality but also showcases the evolving landscape of sheep breeding in New Zealand.

This win underscores the importance of adapting breeding practices to meet market demands and consumer preferences, a trend that is becoming increasingly evident in the agricultural sector. The success of Mr. Booth’s ewe is a testament to innovative breeding strategies and the potential for shedding sheep to excel in competitive environments.