The old saying “better late than never” does apply right now.

We really don’t know where 2023 has gone but it has certainly flown. Do hope this past year has treated you all very well both personally and business wise and you continue to grow during 2024.

We have had the experience of welcoming in two new employees during 2023. Will and Jen Church started in February and Ben Austin started in October. Neither had had a lot to do with merino sheep but Will had experience with British breeds. Both are learning quickly and we are loving having them in our Westvale family. Ben has had a lot to do with horses and we call him a horse (sheep) whisperer as he has quietened the sheep in the stud shed beautifully. At present both men are learning a lot about rams, worms, lambs, shows and clipping.

2024 Ram Sales coming up. Armidale on 7th and our on Property 14th February. Catalogue on the Web so please peruse. We hope to see you at one of our sales.

It has been a difficult year on Westvale. A very dry spring then just grass rain right up to now. Our water storages are very low and we are hoping one of those cyclones will come our way as we have missed all the storms.

Family wise we are growing as we received our first GGchild in November and have two more on the way this year. We also have a new baby coming on Westvale which will be a great joy for us all. Health wise Leo & myself are starting to feel our age but with two young men to keep us on our toes we hope to be around for some time yet.

Leo & Judy and all the Blanch Family.