Tim Gow, a Southland breeder, credits his uncle Dr. Scott Dolling for guiding the success of his Shire breed of hair sheep at Mangapiri Downs Organic Stud Farm. Originally running Wiltshires for their hardiness but messy wool shedding, a throwback ram lamb with coarse hair led Dolling to encourage Gow to import German Mutton breeds to cross with his line. By 2011, the trademarked Shire breed proved dominant, known for its strength, longevity, and ability to thrive in harsh conditions, attracting interest from breeders nationwide and abroad.
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