Animal Welfare, Health & Breeding Standards
Flock Health Standards — Accurate, Honest, Documented
We believe buyers deserve a clear and accurate picture of our flock health program. Here is exactly what we do and why.
Liver Fluke — NATA Certified Free
Certified Liver Fluke free through NATA accredited laboratory testing, verified by our attending veterinarian. Documentation available on request.
Ovine Johnes Disease — No Movement Restrictions Anywhere in Australia
The National OJD Management Program was formally concluded in 2018 by Sheep Producers Australia and WoolProducers Australia, based on expert technical advice that OJD can be effectively managed as part of normal flock health and biosecurity practice. OJD movement restrictions have been progressively removed across all Australian states and territories, with the last interstate movement barriers lifted in 2019. There are currently no OJD-related movement restrictions anywhere in Australia — our sheep move freely to buyers in any state or territory without OJD presenting any barrier.
Our foundation flock was vaccinated against OJD by the original breeder prior to purchase. Vaccination has since been discontinued in line with Local Land Services and veterinary advice, reflecting the low risk status of OJD in our region and the national deregulation of the program. A National Sheep Health Declaration is provided with every sale.
5-in-1 Vaccination with B12 — Annual, Every Animal
This is the cornerstone of our health program. Every animal in our flock receives an annual 5-in-1 vaccination covering Pulpy Kidney, Tetanus, Black Disease, Blackleg, and Malignant Oedema, with B12. Lambs receive their first vaccination at marking with a booster four to six weeks later. No exceptions.
Parasite Management — Levamisole Oral + Moxidectin Long-Acting Injection
Our drench program combines Levamisole oral and Moxidectin long-acting injection when Faecal Egg Count monitoring indicates treatment is required. The dual-mode approach addresses internal and external parasites with different mechanisms, reducing resistance risk. As a breed, Damara sheep carry strong natural parasite tolerance — our program is applied when monitoring says it is needed, not on a blanket schedule.
Hoof Health — Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Routine hoof inspection and trimming is a consistent husbandry standard across our flock. Hoof health directly affects mobility, grazing efficiency, welfare, and long-term productivity.
All health documentation and National Sheep Health Declarations are available to buyers on request.
Health Testing & Certification Summary
This section provides a summary of veterinary inspections, testing, and certification processes completed for livestock prepared for interstate movement.
Our Purebred Standard — F5 and Above Only
The Damara Sheep Breeders Society of Australia recognises animals as purebred eligible for registration from the F5 generation — representing 96.875% or higher Damara genetics. At Hamilton Ridge, every breeding animal meets or exceeds this standard.
We run no F1, F2, F3, or F4 animals in our breeding program. This means:
– Every animal we sell is DSBSA registerable as purebred in the buyer’s name
– There is no risk of earlier-generation genetic influence on our breeding outcomes
– Buyers purchasing from Hamilton Ridge can build their own stud program on a genetically documented, fully upgraded foundation
– Our pedigree records in Kintraks reflect verified, multi-generational purebred status for every animal
For buyers establishing or expanding a stud breeding program, the generation purity of your foundation stock is fundamental. Once earlier-generation genetics enter a purebred program — even unintentionally — correcting that dilution takes multiple generations to resolve. Starting from a verified F5+ foundation eliminates that risk entirely.
Purpose
Pre-transport inspection and certification
Destination
Western Australia
Veterinary Provider
Diamond Mobile Veterinary Services
Outcome
✔ Animals assessed as fit for transport
✔ Required treatments completed
✔ Certification issued for interstate movement
Veterinary Process Overview
- Full clinical inspection prior to dispatch
- Condition and fitness assessment
- Targeted treatments as required
- Preparation for certification
Laboratory Testing & Compliance
Testing is conducted through accredited veterinary laboratories where required.
- Disease screening (as applicable)
- Health status verification
- Documentation for certification
Certification & Documentation
- National Vendor Declarations (NVD)
- NLIS identification compliance
- Animal health certification
- Treatment records (if required)
Example Compliance Record
Movement Type
Interstate livestock transfer
Origin
New South Wales
Destination
Western Australia
Completed Requirements
✔ Veterinary inspection
✔ Required treatments
✔ Laboratory testing (if applicable)
✔ Health certification issued
✔ NLIS compliance
✔ Approved livestock transport arranged
Status:
✔ Completed and compliant
Important Note on Testing
“Testing and certification requirements vary depending on destination state, biosecurity regulations, and livestock use. All preparation is completed in consultation with veterinary professionals.”
Supporting Documentation
Copies of veterinary certifications, treatment records, and compliance documentation can be provided to buyers where required.
Damara Sheep Breeder Association of Australia – Damara Breed Standards written by Marianne Wilkinson – President
Damara Sheep for Sale in Australia
Hamilton Ridge Damara Stud supplies selected Damara sheep for breeding programs across Australia.