Avenel Merino Stud

World-Renowned Australian Merino Stud, based at Wanganella, NSW. Refining the art of the Merino since 1962.

Avenel Merino Stud is owned and managed by Colin and Amanda McCrabb. They breed large- framed, plain-bodied sheep with heavy-cutting sweet medium wool. Avenel Merinos are renowned for high fertility.

Our ram-selling period commences with the annual on-farm ram auction in September. Avenel Horned Merinos are always available and the first Avenel Poll Merino ram lambs are on the ground in June 2016.

Avenel Merinos suit a wide variety of Australian climatic conditions, ranging from lower rainfall western division pastoral to higher rainfall tableland areas. Current clients are throughout NSW, Victoria and South Australia.

Avenel Merino Stud was registered in 1971 by Ken and Mary McCrabb. The stud has had many successes in wether trials from the Queensland Border at Mungindi to Victoria and South Australia. Ken and Mary won a trip to Japan where they studied the wool industry and its requirements. They were one of the first studs to hold an on-property Ram Sale in 1974 where they auctioned 8 Quarter Horses, 12 Kelpies and 50 Rams.

The Stud has sold up to 800 rams annually. Ken started an extensive classing business of 80 clients and was personally able to look after and advise them on their sheep management. Colin continues this service today.

The Avenpart Kelpie Stud and the Avenel Shorthorns are run by Ken and Mary.