Colleagues at Murdoch University are mourning the death of Craig Heggaton who tragically passed away at the age of 63.

Craig was a dedicated ‘Murdoch person’ who graduated from the Veterinary School in 1983. He came to Murdoch University from Tasmania back when the Veterinary School took students on a merit quota basis from South Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania as well as Western Australia. Even in his early days as a student, he showed a passion for production animals finally with a clear interest in the sheep industry.

Craig then joined forces with his wife Liz to begin a highly successful multi faceted farming business in the Kojonup region that included cropping, sheep, artificial breeding and livestock feed manufacturing. Sheep breeding was Craig’s passion and the family developed BreedersBest Genetics that specialised in four breed types (Kojak, Prolific, Poll Dorset, White Suffolk) targeted toward prime lamb production and based on modern principles of quantitative genetics.

The Heggaton family agricultural businesses have been a valued partner for Murdoch University hosting on-farm research focussed on sustainable mixed farming strategies, animal health and animal welfare. The farm and breeding businesses have hosted numerous student placements and farm visits, providing students with valuable exposure to the practical application of theory and research in a successful agricultural business and opportunity for hands-on learning. 

Craig's passion for the prime lamb industry extended beyond the farm gate. As the chair of the board for the WA Meat Marketing Co-operative (WAMMCO) since 2015, he played a key role in the success of this unique, farmer-owned cooperative dedicated to processing prime lamb for markets around the world. Under his leadership, WAMMCO underwent substantial growth, delivered substantial returns to sheep producers and made significant contributions to research and development.

Collaboration between WAMMCO and the Murdoch University Meat Science team has been instrumental in advancing the industry through supporting development of genomic selection for meat phenotypes, optimised methods to enhance consumer satisfaction and quantitative assessment of carcass traits. This partnership led to the installation of technologies to evaluate carcass composition and developing methods to assess eating quality. The dedication and vision aimed to objectively measure the true financial value of the carcass is driving continuous improvement in prime lamb production, from paddock to plate, and leaves an indelible mark on the Australian livestock industry with potential to positively shape its future for generations to come.

Murdoch University recognises Craig for his outstanding contributions to the Sheep Industry and the success of Animal and Veterinary Science research and education. Our thoughts are with Craig's family, friends and colleagues.