FOR the first time the Babydoll Sheep breed were introduced into the recent Bendigo Sheep and Wool Show. This is the biggest event of the its kind in the world, and was a highlight for the Hilldene/Glenaroua Ravenstone Babydoll Stud to show their Babydolls at this level.
There were four Studs in attendance, Hillgrove Stud and Roogilli Farm, Bungendore, NSW, Gumbuya Stud, Addington, Victoria and the local Ravenstone Babydoll Stud. The competitions were friendly and a great experience for all. The inclusion of the Babydoll breed at the Bendigo Sheep and Wool Show has been a milestone for the breed and raised a large amount of interest and awareness of a little-known sheep based on Southdown genes – ‘The sheep with a smile’. Known for their use in vineyards, olive groves, orchards, pets and ideal for small acreages.
Following on from the Ravenstone Babydoll Stud appearance at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo for the last three years, to be able to compete at Bendigo has been an extension to the experience, according to Stud Principals and owners Pam Beerens and Leigh Edwards.
The results of the weekend – Ravenstone Miss Clover with a third in the ‘Ewe under 1 ½ years’ and Ravenstone Mini with a first in the ‘Ewe over 2 ½ years’ Class, Champion Ewe for Babydoll, Supreme Champion Babydoll Exhibit and the ‘Inaugural 2026 Combined Registries Supreme Champion Babydoll’ awards. Not only did these awards all came as a surprise but it has meant moving up to the next level for their breeding program.
