In 2024, sheep producers across south-west Victoria faced one of the driest seasons on record, with rainfall in some areas less than 60% of the annual average. For many, it was the first time they had to feed ewes during lambing—a challenging and stressful experience that prompted a region-wide survey led by Southern Farming Systems and the Victorian Drought Resilience and Adoption Hub.

The survey captured insights from 31 producers, revealing that 71% fed their ewes during lambing, primarily using barley, faba beans, and hay. Trail feeding was the most common method, though concerns about mismothering led some to experiment with spreading feed or using self-feeders.

Producers employed a variety of strategies to build feed wedges, including containment and sacrifice paddocks, though kangaroo pressure often undermined these efforts. Feeding frequency varied, with most opting for daily or three-times-weekly schedules to balance nutrition and lamb survival.

Despite the challenges, some producers maintained or even improved their lamb marking percentages. Key takeaways included the importance of scanning ewes, feeding adequate metabolisable energy (ME), and using tools like the LTEM app or NSW DPI Feed Calculator to fine-tune rations.

The most consistent advice? Start feeding early, use small paddocks and mobs to reduce mismothering, and don’t underestimate the value of mental health support during tough seasons.

📄 Read the full report for detailed data, feeding strategies, and producer insights https://sfs.org.au/resource/feeding-whilst-lambing-2024-what-did-we-learn