Sheep sheds protect flocks from weather extremes, reduce lamb mortality, and provide controlled environments for lambing, shearing, and management. From simple open-front paddock shelters to fully equipped lambing sheds, steel construction delivers durability and low maintenance in harsh Australian conditions.
Lamb mortality from exposure is one of the biggest losses in sheep production. A lambing shed provides a controlled environment during the critical first 48 hours, protection from wind, rain, cold, and predators. Typical features: individual pens (1.5m x 1.5m per ewe+lamb), easy-clean floors, good ventilation, and lighting for night checks.
Open-front shelters in paddocks protect sheep from extreme heat, cold winds, and driving rain. Heat stress kills more sheep than cold in many parts of Australia. Shade structures over feedlots and holding areas are increasingly common as weather patterns intensify.
Dedicated shearing sheds with shearing board, catching pens, wool room, and pressing area. See our dedicated shearing shed page for detailed specifications.
Covered yard areas for drafting, drenching, jetting, and loading. A roof over the handling area means you work in all conditions and sheep stay calmer in the shade.
| Type | Typical Span | Wall Height | Floor Area per Head |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lambing shed | 9m to 15m | 3m to 4m | 2.0 to 3.0 m² (ewe + lamb) |
| Feedlot shade | 12m to 18m | 3.6m to 4.5m | 1.5 to 2.0 m² per head |
| Paddock shelter | 6m to 12m | 3m to 3.6m | 0.8 to 1.5 m² per head |
| Covered yards | 12m to 18m | 3.6m to 4.5m | 0.5 to 1.0 m² per head |
Kit supply includes steel frame, COLORBOND® cladding, and certified engineering. Design your sheep shed online or call 0488 510 550.
See also: Farm Sheds | Livestock Sheds | Shearing Sheds | Hay Sheds