THE priority of Terrick West Poll Merinos is high-volume, high-quality and soft-handling 18-19 micron wool on large fertile dual-purpose animals.
“Delivering consistent returns in all soil, feed and climate conditions,” is how co-principals Ross and Claire McGauchie view their development of the stud’s genetics.
“Our Prairie West stud takes a measured approach to stud breeding, using experience and data to sustainably introduce profitable traits without upsetting the genetic balance of the flock.”
The stud is part of the acclaimed Loddon Valley Merino region and has a strong reputation, having won major titles at various sheep shows.
Terrick West kicks off the Victorian Merino stud sale season and Ross says his stud will again be including ASBVs on all sale rams. 
“Full genomics testing of these animals, including poll tests will be available,” he said.
Ross said Terrick West’s large-framed and plain-bodied sires were also critical for many of the stud’s clients joining ewes to Border Leicesters and other terminal sires. “Terrick West’s consistently bulky and deep-crimping wool ensures ongoing wool clip value in addition to profitable meat production,” he said.
 “Our sires consistently produce high volumes of soft handling, deep-crimping wool in the 17 to 19 micron range with high comfort factors – on frames weighing over 100kg still with their lambs teeth.”
Terrick West Stud was founded by Edgar McGauchie and his sons Cyril and Eric in 1932. Today Eric’s son, Ross together with his wife Robyn and daughter Claire manage Terrick West Poll Merinos. Claire is the fourth generation of McGauchies to help set the vision and direction of Terrick West Poll Merinos.
“We take a balanced approach to innovations that sustainably improve our stud, our flock, our industry and our home,” Ross said.
And Terrick West has a sustained record of achievement on the national stage and locally. At this year’s Loddon Valley Merino Field Day, the stud was awarded both the best pen of three rams and best pen of three ewes.
“Our young stud sire TW 220405(Max) won the Supreme Junior Ram at Bathurst Show last year. He was shorn again in M arch and went on to be Grand Champion March Shorn Ram in Dubbo and Reserve Champion in Adelaide. We have had good interest in semen sales from him with 400 doses sold so far,” Ross said.
“Our rams consistently show the genetics to improve strength and quality.”