Summer 2016 at Hard Hill Farm

Throughout January and February, consistently high temperatures, combined with very little rainfall, resulted in hot and dry conditions at Hard Hill Farm.

Hay season was affected by the drought conditions, which impacted on crop production and the ecology of the range.

The yearly summer norm resumed, with the additional provision of supplementary grain feeding and hay being supplied to all the mobs of sheep. The supplementary feed is essential to combat the loss of productive pasture.

The following link is to an article which appeared in the Weekly Times recently, explaining some of the important factors for supplementary feeding, with a focus on pregnant ewes:

http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/agribusiness/farm-magazine/the-livestock-doc-its-true-she-needs-to-eat-for-two/news-story/e3d4e50321cb4b95721560e1ecf6eb8e

Close monitoring of adequate water supplies is also essential and requires the regular ongoing transportation of additional water to keep up with demand.

Late February saw the annual shearing of all sheep at the Hard Hill Farm Shearing Shed.

This is a very hectic time each year with the large base flock of Merino sheep. Around 1,800 sheep were rounded up and shorn over a period of approximately 6 days. Fortunately the high temperatures avoided us during this time frame, much to the Shearers relief!

The Merino sheep continue to produce a quality fleece which is always well sort after, despite fluctuating wool prices.

Merino sheep are an economically influenced breed of sheep, prized for their wool and have consistently played a large roll at Hard Hill Farm.

At only 18 month old, Tilly has proven herself to be a natural sheep herding dog (pictured).

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As we welcome the change of season, we wish everyone all the best over the coming months!