The Black and Coloured Sheep Breeders Association of New Zealand celebrated their 49th conference last week at Croydon Lodge.
More than 30 coloured-sheep breeders came from as far as Hawke’s Bay to check out pelts, engage in workshops, check out local farms and celebrate their shared interests.
Long-time Gore breeder Julie Howden received a national award of merit at the conference dinner for her services at national and branch levels for the association and said it was a growing and international success.
"I joined the association because I really wanted to get into farming, it’s been a real boon for me.
"We have members from Hawke’s Bay, the Wairarapa, all over the North and South Island — a lot of people make the conference their annual holiday," she said.
Member Yvonne Mark, from Hawke’s Bay, said she was having a blast at the conference, finding it was a home away from home, even with the damper weather.
"Today’s been an awesome trip. We’re all here for black sheep, it’s just like a great adventure, we’re having fun.
"It doesn’t really matter where you’re from.
"You’re a farmer, you’re always a farmer. It’s under your fingernails," she said.
