Seventy-four dorper and white dorper rams from seven eastern region stud breeders have entered the trial, held at the Condobolin Agricultural Research and Advisory Station (CARAS).

The trial is a partnership between the Department of Industry and Investment NSW and the Eastern Region Dorper Society, independently measuring the young 120-210 day old rams, and identifying high performers.

Eastern region president Graham Pickles said the trial was based on a system used in South Africa, the ‘Veld Sales’, but it was the first time it had been used in Australia.

“This is the first time rams have been run out, measured and sold,” Mr Pickles said.

“This is the first performance tested sale for a sheep breed that we, and the (Industry and Investment NSW) are aware of.

“It is a very popular way of buying rams in South Africa.”

The rams were delivered into the CARAS in early August, where they were classed by South African sheep inspector Wicus Cronje .

They will now run together for the next eight months under the same conditions with regular monitoring of their weight, eye muscle, fat depth and other measurements.

At the end of the trial, the rams will be classed again, before going on sale at the CARAS in late May, or early June, 2011, with their measurements, performance traits and rankings available in the sale catalogue.

There are also plans for a Field Day, held at the CARAS, showcasing the rams, to be held in March next year.

Mr Pickles said the trial would allow breeders to see how their genetics perform.

“With them all running in the same conditions, you’re really able to see the genetic influence, when the environment is the same,” Mr Pickles said.

Mr Pickles said with the maternal aspects of the breed, the performance of rams was particularly important, as their female offspring would stay in the flock for several generations.

“The progeny of these rams is going to have a significant impact for years to come,” he said.

The seven studs involved in the trial are Amarula Dorpers, Gravesend, Brocburn Dorpers, Tasmania, Burrawang Dorpers, Ootha, Burrawang White Dorpers, Ootha, Castlebar White Dorpers, Boggabri, Uley White Dorpers, Parkes, and Winrae Dorpers, Bourke.