Mr John Beattie
Championing Long Wool Sheep Breeds
John Beattie is a Northern Victoria farmer and a prominent figure in the world of sheep breeding, particularly in promoting alternative sheep breeds.
His association with the Melbourne Royal Show started as a young boy who showcased Clydesdale horses with his father as a young boy, and includes milestone moments like winning three out the four yearling classes in English Leicester Lincoln feature show in 1992.
John and Alice Beattie at the Strong Wool Breeders Association Sheep Show in May 2019. Their Esdale Stud won the Champion Lincoln Ram and Champion Lincoln Ewe. Image Source: Australian Lincoln Society Fb Page
John's interest in the Lincoln sheep breed goes back to his childhood, as his grandfather had Lincolns on their farm. Over time, he developed a strong sentiment for the breed and eventually established the Esdale Lincoln stud in 1965. Despite being primarily a hobby, John has been dedicated to maintaining and improving the Lincoln breed, aiming for potential commercial viability in the future.
Beyond his involvement with the Melbourne Royal Show, John and his wife Alice have played a vital role in the Strong Wool Breeders Association's committee, advocating for long wool British breed sheep. Additionally, John is recognised as a Long Wool judge on the Australian Stud Sheep Breeders Association (ASSBA) Victorian Federal panel, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to the sheep breeding community.