Merinos, emus, shorthorns

First stop today was the merino and white Suffolk stud farm called Trigger Vale, owned by Andrew and Mandy Bouffler, where we listened to a presentation and observed some of the studs. And we met their newest bottle calf,Tom! Mr. Bouffler was professional and interesting because he was very passionate about improving the genetics of his farm and how to be more innovative and efficient. The wool of the merino was extremely soft!! It could be used for other fine silks and Italian suits as Mr. Bouffler said.

After that we went to the emu farm owned by Ian Marston where there are over 200 emus raised for processing. We don't have that in the United States in very many places, so this was interesting to hear all about the industry. The most profitable product from emus is the oil. They can get up to 10 kilograms off one bird. The owners also provided lunch to us at their beautiful house. But....emu was not part if the food. Lol. We are told it is an acquired taste so maybe it's good we didn't.

Finally, we ended the day at the Spry's Shorthorn ranch. After seeing many of their studs and listening about their prestigious business, we had steaks and beer and socialized with the for the rest if the evening. Afterwards we made it to Wagga Wagga and everyone was so exhausted! I was in bed asleep by 8:30! Lol