General News
3 August, 2026
Rams making a big impact
FOR nearly 90 years, the McGauchies have been recording pedigrees at Terrick West.
FOR nearly 90 years, the McGauchies have been recording pedigrees at Terrick West.
Today, that accuracy is backed up with DNA testing for the stud where breeding combine fertility, doing ability, and plain-bodied structure with high-value, stylish, white wool in the 17-19 micron range.
“We place emphasis on ASBVs as a tool to complement visual classing and to offer clients confidence in consistent genetic progress,” said principal Ross McGauchie.
“Pedigree recording and the use of DNA technologies underpin our selection process to ensure accuracy and accountability.
“We understand the commercial realities faced by sheep producers today.
“That’s why we focus on breeding rams that are ready to work, carry themselves well in a range of environments, and leave a lasting impact on both wool and meat income.
“Our genetics are backed by years of careful selection and are proving themselves in studs and commercial flocks across Australia.”
Ross said the priority of Terrick West Poll Merinos was 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-principal Claire McGauchie view 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.
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 the best pen of three ewes and has gone on to see its rams take first and second places in the same sections at major shows.
These include the recent the Australian Sheep and Wool Show, the Victorian Sheep Show, the Great Southern Supreme Merino show in Bathurst and at Hay.
Read More: Loddon Shire