One man and his Offsider

“They are the most intelligent sheep I have ever worked with.” Barry Henry of Henry Dorpers has been breeding and raising Dorpers for the past 8 years and knows how they work.  “We know that Dorpers have a strong will and ability to survive and exceptional meat qualities, its why we breed them.”  While the breed ideal has a calm temperament with a vigorous appearance, it can take training and patience to get them there.

Because of their intelligent and curious nature, and their strength and agility, handling Dorpers can be challenging. 

“They are very mobile animals, they don’t want to be man handled,” said David Hicks of Offsider Ag Equipment, “We thought there had to be a better way.”

Working with breeders in south east Queensland, Offsider Ag has done just that. Developing a meat animal specific crush has created a safer, calmer work environment for both man and beast.

“Because they are so intelligent, one bad handling experience can be bad news in the long run,” said David, “The Offsider Ag Meat Sheep Handler makes it easier to clip, check feet, dose, inject or tag the animal and keep both of you calm!”

Focussing on the key needs of breeders and graziers a like, Offsider Ag have delivered a one-person operation. “We know that sometimes you can’t get someone to give you a hand in the yards and that paying someone might be out of reach, so we really focused on being able to use it alone.”

Most producers will only build, or purchase, one handling facility in their lifetime, so getting a good one is key. “Relearning to use a whole new yard set up can be painful. We’ve designed the Handler so that it can be retro fitted to your current yards.”

The proof of any new piece of machinery is in the using. Ryan Folkhard of Lilydale Farms, has worked with the Meat Sheep Handler. “Of course, safety is the most important aspect when it comes to handling our sheep, for me and the animal, but the efficiency with which I can handle them with the Offsider Ag Handler is great news for the bottom line.”

Calm stock that are processed quickly can only be a good outcome.  Offsider Ag Equipment will be at the 10th Annual Queensland Multivendor Dorper & White Dorper Ram & Ewe Sale.