STUD HISTORY

Our introduction to Dorpers was the purchase of a dozen 2nd cross Dorper ewes to contol fireweed. We found them to be an absolute delight. After only 3 months we were totally hooked on the breed and made the decision to establish a Dorper Stud, seeking out the best genetics available.

Old Munbilla Dorpers was established in 2004 with predominantly Type 4 ewes from Amarula Dorper Stud. We were fortunate to obtain Amarula 'Douggie' as our foundation sire, after a very successful stud career at Springvale Dorper Stud. 'Douggie's quality was highlighted with one of his sons from Springvale being judged Reserve Champion Ram at the National Dorper Show in Dubbo in 2005.

Old Munbilla achieved early success at the same show in 2005 with three entries, winning both ewe lamb classes and placing second in a ram class.

'Douggie' left a legacy of very sound ewes. In 2006 we had South African Inspector Dolf Lategan (author of the Dorper Training Manual "Dorpers into the new century") assess our sheep and advise us on selection of a suitable replacement sire.

We then purchased Type 5 Kaya 04-7949, 'Bullo' for his excellence according to the breed standard, his success as a leading sire at Kaya Dorper Stud and importantly his outstanding growth rate and meat qualities. 'Bullo' remains the leading Dorper sire for post weaning weight score on Lambplan and his leading Carcase Plus Index of 182 has only recently been surpassed by an Index of 183. He also has the highest Dorper$ Index of any Dorper - 140. (See Sires page and Lamplan under Useful Links)

To build on the outstanding genetics we had acquired, we carried out two embryo transplant programs in 2006 and early 2007, using both 'Bullo' and the 2007 Champion Ram 'Big Al', Kaya 03-7094 over our elite ewes.

With a considerable boost to our ewe base we had South Aftrican Inspector Ron van der Merwe grade our entire flock. Our selection of sires was borne out with around 20 ewes graded as Type 5. Those ewes not achieving Type 4 or Type 5 and any not consistent with our breeding objectives were sold. The result is a high performing stud flock, very true to the breed standard.

With the increasing number of outstanding Old Munbilla ewes we were able to sell three Type 4 ewes at the 2008 National Dorper Sale at Dubbo. The quality of our ewes in elite company was recognised with two of our ewes selling for $1,500 each and one for $1,000.

In pursuit of constant improvement we take advantage of Dorper training courses to continually upgrade our own skills and also draw on experienced Australian breeders. We would like to thank Nick and Mel Pagett of Winrae Dorper Stud (2007 Supreme Exhibitor at National Show) for advice on selection within our stud.