During those years, she was employed in a health care environment, always dreaming an entrepreneur’s dream to create a business which would permit her to work on an animal farm.  The animals had to be small enough for this petite woman to physically care for without assistance; a business venture Sharon could call her very own.

Sharon was aware of the Lamont-Two Hills Business Development Corporation (BDC), and came directly to them to inquire as to how to begin the self employment process.  "The help I received was more than money. I had the idea, but I had no idea where and how to begin," Moore said.

Moore’s idea was to join a growing group of Canadian mutton producers who happen to be mostly female.  Sheep are small in size, and friendly in disposition; a perfect farming venture for a woman to maintain.

"The BDC gave me all the information to work my business plan, and worked with me every step of the way, to tailor it so that I totally understood it and learned how to use it.  My family has been incredibly supportive in every aspect.  The business plan was the toughest part of the entire concept, but I have learned so much about my business by putting it together.  I rely on my plan on a daily basis.  With luck I can pay back my 10 year loan in 5 years". Sharon told us her real goal is to actually pay it off in 3 years!

In September, 1997, together with her son who is a one third partner, Sharon bought 30 ewes and 2 rams.  The stock consists of a hearty Russian pure bred Romanovs, as well as Canadian Artcott sheep.  Sharon’s research told her Australia is producing less and less sheep, they seem to be going toward grain production, therefore mutton, a low cholesterol meat, continues to be in high demand.

Today, this shepherdess says, "They all have names, like Mary, Lucy, Susie, and Konan for one of the boys.  I can get them to come from the field by calling out, ‘Come on, girls’".

The BDC loan allows Sharon to stock the herd first.   Presently she is just making yearly interest payments.  "I haven’t even used all the loan money up yet" she says, as she anticipates there will be costs as the lambing begins.

Sharon’s goal is 200-300 sheep in 5 years or so.   She says, "thanks to the BDC for the financial assistance."  Sharon continues by saying, "but more importantly with the step-by-step help I got to do a business plan which has provided me with confident business knowledge, something one needs to overcome the scary business hurdles I have been faced with.  The help I received to set up books and understand them, learn how to bank and bank reconciliation, budgeting and marketing has given me the confidence I need.  I know I can go in to the BDC office and they’ll help me with just about any set-up work, although I think they are leaving the ‘lambing’ to me!"