Where are they now? 2014 Peter Westblade Scholarship Recipient, Ben Patrick.

Ben Patrick

Ben has always had a passion for merino genetics and a desire to create a sustainable and profitable agriculture business. 

While studying Ag Business Management, Ben started as a jackaroo quickly moving to an overseer.  In a short period, he relocated to manage a large merino operation where he had principal responsibility for increasing the commercial viability of the business.  

During this time Ben won the Peter Westblade Scholarship which allowed him to expand his knowledge of Merino breeding operations and to enhance his networking within the Merino industry.

Along the way, Ben has experience judging sheep which represented an opportunity to work with key industry leaders and gain further knowledge of Merinos from different regions of Australia.

In 2013 Ben relocated to Yarrawonga Merino Stud. Together Ben and Steve (Principal of Yarrawonga) worked to establish an advanced and profitable breeding program, specialist marketing programs and successful management structures.    Additionally, Ben was responsible for the implementation of Merinoselect ASBV’s.

As well as genetics Ben has been the General Manager of Yarrawonga Pastoral, with experience in dual purpose grazing systems and business.  He has been responsible of over 80,000DSE’s and a team of six staff members of six different properties throughout NSW. Ben continues to be involved with client liaison as well as classing Yarrawonga blood flocks in Southern NSW.

Now, 15 years later, Ben with Rebecca Downey are based on their own farms in Tasmania; ‘Lake Echo’ and ‘Stonehouse’, and Ben still significantly involved with management of farms in eastern NSW. 

Ben is enthusiastic about the future of Australia’s sheep and wool industry and is focused on advancing management strategies, improving genetics, and importantly increasing yield and profitability.