An insight into sheep research in New Zealand with Paul Kenyon

An insight into sheep research in New Zealand with Paul Kenyon

Author: Mark Ferguson April 23, 2023 Duration: 32:03
One of the main topics of today’s podcast is the financial modelling of transitioning to a shedding flock from a Romney our guest, Prof. Paul Kenyon of Massey University, has been involved with. Mark asks what instigated the work and what does the modelling show? "In reality, coarse wool is costing more to get it off. Many farmers spend their whole summer shearing, crutching, dagging, dipping... controlling fly. As we move forward in the modern society it's harder and harder to get labour in...

Tune in to Head Shepherd, where Mark Ferguson draws on his deep involvement with neXtgen Agri to explore the realities of modern pastoral farming. This isn't just industry news; it's a series of conversations from the paddock and the research station, focused squarely on sheep and beef operations across Australia and New Zealand. You'll hear from the farmers, scientists, and innovators themselves-the people actually implementing new ideas in genetics, animal health, and farm management technology. Each episode digs into the practical science and the business decisions behind running a successful livestock enterprise, offering tangible insights that bridge the gap between emerging innovation and daily farm life. By focusing on real-world applications and the stories of those driving change, this podcast provides an authentic look at where these vital industries are headed. For anyone with a stake in the land or a curiosity about where their food and fibre comes from, Mark's straightforward interviews make complex topics accessible and directly relevant. The entire Head Shepherd podcast is built on the principle that sharing knowledge is key to progress, offering a genuine resource for education and improvement in the agricultural sector.
Author: Language: en-nz Episodes: 100

Head Shepherd
Podcast Episodes
BONUS EPISODE: Integrating Angoras with Merinos [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:15
This week we're giving you a bonus episode on the Head Shepherd Podcast. Our host Mark, also hosts the Fibre Frontier podcast and we thought this interview with Dr Susan Robertson was worth sharing with our audience here…
Strategies for Higher Conception Rates in Cattle with Dr Pedro Fontes [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:12
This week on the Head Shepherd podcast, we’re joined by Dr Pedro Fontes from the University of Georgia to talk about beef cattle reproduction. Pedro’s research focuses on optimising fertility through artificial inseminat…
All you need to know about Toxoplasmosis with Connor Bury [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:41
This week on the Head Shepherd podcast, we’re deep-diving into Toxoplasma Gondii with veterinary parasitologist Connor Bury. Connor walks us through the lifecycle of the parasite, how it’s impacting sheep farmers across…
From Sheep Contracting to Livestock Consulting with Amber Smith [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:45
This week on the podcast, our guest is Amber Smith, the latest livestock consultant to join the neXtgen Agri team. Raised on a Merino stud in central-west New South Wales, Amber developed a deep connection to livestock e…
Bridging the Farm Ownership Gap with Sarah How [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:03
How do we get the next generation onto farms while helping established farmers transition out? In this episode of Head Shepherd, Mark chats with Sarah How, co-founder of Landify and New Zealand finalist for the Zanda McD…
Herding the Numbers and Driving Success with Jeremy Hutchings [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:15
Most farmers focus on production—but how many focus on profit? In this episode, Jeremy Hutchings explains how mastermind groups and business coaching are changing the game for farmers. Do you know your key business numbe…
Farming in the Ocean with Maegen Blom [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:16
From dairy farming to mussels, Maegen Blom’s family took an unexpected turn into aquaculture—and she jumped right in. Now, as Operations Manager at Mills Bay Mussels, Maegen is tackling the challenges of farming a live p…
Better Genetics, Not Better Grooming With Dr Mark Ferguson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:50
Some rams at sales are not what they seem. Foot trimming and excessive feeding can cover up genetic faults, and buyers are paying the price. This week, Ferg breaks down what’s really happening in the industry and how we…
Building a Sustainable Red Meat Brand with Hamish Best [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:59
What does it take to build a successful red meat brand from the ground up? Hamish Best, a sheep and beef farmer near Wellington, shares his journey in this episode, from his background in agronomy and sales to his return…
Understanding Drench Resistance in Sheep with Dr Mark Ferguson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:07
This week it's Ferg on the podcast, discussing the trans-Tasman, if not global, issue of drench resistance in sheep. From monitoring worm burdens to selecting rams with the right genetics, this episode is packed with pra…