(By Heather Fleming)
A new book detailing the story of the Modern Merino sheep in Australia was launched at the Grampians Estate Cellar Door at Great Western last weekend.
“Collinsville and Beyond: a pastoral history of the Modern Merino,” was written by Chris Guthrie, well known breeder, classer and consultant from Rich Avon, near Donald.
Rich Avon was originally settled in 1844 and has been in the ownership of the Guthrie family since 1864.
The Guthries developed one of the oldest Merino studs in Victoria, and Chris has continued his forbears’ legacy.
Hamish Guthrie introduced his father Chris, saying his life centres around sheep production.
“He’s been exposed to all things sheep from a young age and has had a lifelong obsession with them,” he said.
Chris himself said his book was a celebration of the Merino of the past and an exposé of today’s modern sheep.
He said he was grateful for the contributions he had received from other stud owners, and the virtue they saw in what he was doing.
Architects of Change
“Collinsville and Beyond” features extensive information about three men Chris Guthrie describes as “The architects of change”: Tom Padbury, Neil McLennan and Jim Watts.
It delves into the history of the famed Peppin bloodline, and tells of renowned studs including Collinsville, Wanganella, Banavie Park, Charinga, Wallaloo Park and Stud Park.
There are also lots of photos, which Chris laughingly remarked was “the secret of any good rural book”.
On a more serious note, Chris spoke of the importance of the wool industry in our history, noting that in 1989 wool was Australia’s biggest export, surpassing even that of BHP.
“We need to remind the next generation that this is an industry that should be respected for what it has achieved,” he said. “Hopefully this book will be a celebration of the past and an illustration of the virtues of the Modern Merino.”
Several guest speakers also addressed the crowd. President of the Victorian Stud Merino Breeders Association, Peter Rogers, and fellow Merino breeder, John Carter from Wallaloo Park, both commended Chris for his valuable work on “an amazing and unique breed of sheep.”
Key Messages
The crowd also heard from mental health advocate and Unbreakable Farmer, Warren Davies. Warren spoke of his journey with mental illness, and how important mentors are to us all. He urged the predominantly farming crowd to remember three key messages: communicate with each other, stay connected to community, and ask for help if you’re struggling.
To conclude the formalities, Kelvin Donan from Nutrien Ag Solutions Ararat auctioned the first three copies of “Collinsville and Beyond”, with the proceeds going to the work of “The Unbreakable Farmer”.
Anyone wishing to purchase a copy of Chris Guthrie’s book can pick up a copy at Grampians Estate Cellar Door, or go online to grampiansestate.com.au.
