Lameroo Merino breeders mark 50 years

The Lameroo Merino Breeders' Association first began in 1969 and has spent the past 50 years ensuring their stock has the confidence of buyers.

Founding member Peter Needs, Austin Plains, Lameroo, said the goal of the group was initially to "make an outstanding start to the season in sale", with the concept "very well received".

He said they started with about 20 local Merino breeders who wanted to promote locally-bred sheep.

"The whole yarding, years ago, were all local sheep," he said.

RELATED READING: Lameroo breaks yard record with $326 ewes

In the past, the Lameroo saleyard used to host up to four sales each year, including two sales of 20,000-30,000 sheep for the off-shears.

Member Bruce Pocock, Lampata, Lameroo, said the LMBA membership acted as a "guarantee".

"It could give buyers confidence," he said.

He said many of their clients had been buying from LMBA members for many years.

Membership was drawn from a 30-mile, or about 50-kilometre radius from Lameroo.