SHEEP Country Episode 4 – Headwaters: Driving lamb innovation
Headwaters is a producer group that supplies premium New Zealand lamb through their own brand Lumina Lamb. The 95 farmers in joint venture with Alliance Group breed sheep that deliver genetics, performance, and premium eating quality from hill country to plate.
In this episode, Headwaters CEO Steve Brown and Breeding Manager Tara Dwyer join Jo Scott to discuss how genetics, collaboration, and market connection are driving value across the Lumina supply chain. They explain how a science-based approach and close farmer–chef relationships are building both a stronger breed and a trusted premium brand.
Guests:
- Steve Brown, CEO, Headwaters
- Tara Dwyer, Breeding Manager, Headwaters
Host:
- Jo Scott, Genetic Specialist, Targeted Breeding
Steve Brown leads Headwaters, the company behind the Lumina Lamb brand, a collaborative partnership linking farmers, processors and chefs to deliver a consistent, high-quality product. He explains how the Headwaters model rewards commitment and trust, with farmers sharing in the value created through premium pricing and long-term relationships with Alliance Group.
Steve discusses how the business has evolved from a breeding initiative into a fully integrated value chain built on transparency, feedback and performance. He highlights the importance of communication, data and shared purpose in maintaining quality and driving growth for both the brand and the farmers who supply it.
Tara Dwyer manages the breeding programme at Headwaters, overseeing the genetics that underpin the Lumina Lamb brand. She explains that careful selection and data-driven breeding have created a resilient, dual-purpose sheep that performs across a wide range of New Zealand farms.
Tara highlights the importance of aligning genetics with management, finishing systems and nutrition to deliver both on-farm performance and premium eating quality. She also discusses the value of support, collaboration and knowledge sharing within the Headwaters farmer community to ensure continuous improvement and long-term success.
Find out more about Headwaters at their website here.
