The Challenge

After several consecutive wet seasons, this long-established family enterprise was experiencing widespread lameness, overgrown feet, and persistent infections. These issues were reducing productivity, increasing labour demands, and impacting animal welfare.

Our Solution
In 2022, we introduced a whole-flock foot management and classing program:

- Full foot inspection, tipping, and paring
- Individual assessment of foot structure
- Drafting into maternal, terminal, and cull groups
- Annual pre-joining follow-ups
- Strategic ram selection for improved conformation
- Processing efficiency increased from 800 to 1,300 sheep per day.

The Results
Over four years, the program delivered:

- Significant reduction in lameness
- Minimal ongoing foot care in maternal ewes
- Increased fleece production at consistent micron
- Higher conception and lamb survival rates
- Reduced labour and feed costs
- Improved pasture utilisation

The Impact

Healthier feet have enabled this enterprise to lift stocking rates, improve genetic performance, and increase overall profitability, creating a more resilient and efficient production system.