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The NSW Stud Merino Breeders Association
Membership of the NSW Stud Merino Breeders’ Association Limited (NSW SMBA) comprises the 425 registered Merino studs in the five wool-growing regions of NSW.
Founded in 1894 when it was known as the NSW Sheepbreeders’ Association, the primary aim has long been to deal with matters conducive to the improvement of the Merino breed of sheep.
Members of the Association strive to perfect the world’s best natural and environmentally-friendly fibre, wool from the Australian Modern Merino.
NSW breeders of Merino sheep apply to the NSW SMBA for registration as a Merino stud. Upon approval they are registered in the flock book, and are required to keep records and provide annual returns of the number of sheep in the stud flock, and any additions or disposals of sheep throughout the year.
Members of the NSW SMBA breed around 95,000 Merino and Poll Merino rams per year.
The Association’s core objectives are to
- Promote and encourage the breeding and presentation of higher quality Merino sheep and to improve the standard of the breed
- Hold shows or exhibitions or sales of Merino sheep and to offer prizes in respect of competitions between Merino sheep
- Carry out or to promote the carrying out of research and extension into better methods of animal husbandry, genetics and health
- Prescribe and approve standard or other conditions in relation to the sale or exhibition of sheep or wool
- Regulate the conduct of members in relation to exhibitions, auctions or other sales, maintenance and conduct of flock registers of sheep
- Make rules, regulations and by-laws for the purpose of carrying out or giving effect to any of the objects of the Association
Staff at The Australian Merino Centre, located at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park are responsible for the administration and secretarial functions of the NSW SMBA.
The Association’s governing body, the NSW SMBA Council, consisting of 36 elected members, meets three times per year in Sydney with sub committees functioning in the interim through teleconferences. Any two members of the NSW SMBA can nominate any other member to serve on Council. Councillors are elected for three-year terms after which time the rotating Councillors can renominate for further terms if they so choose.
Nominations for the NSW SMBA Council close at The Australian Merino Centre six weeks prior to the Association’s Annual General Meeting, such meeting being held during the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Life Governors, who have the same rights as Councillors, but are not subject to election, may be appointed after serving 20 years on Council or when nominated as a special appointment for meritorious service.
The Association maintains a close interest in matters affecting the stud Merino industry and is consulted by and/or gives direction to government, statutory authorities, scientific organisations and individuals.
The major Merino shows at Canberra (January), Sydney (Royal Easter Show) and Dubbo (August) and Merino multi-vendor ram sales in Canberra and Dubbo are conducted under the auspices of the Association.