At the annual Billa Burra Burra Merino and Poll Merino ram sale, Yass, 58 rams sold to a top of $2800 and $897 average, reaching a 73 per cent clearance.
The $2800 top-price ram was purchased by the McIntosh family of Carrabungla Merino stud, “Carrabungla”, Laggan.
By sire Comber, the 18.6-micron fibre diameter ram possessed fleece measurements of 2.6 standard deviation (SD), 14 per cent coefficient of variation (CV) and 99.8 comfort factor (CF).
Neville McIntosh, stud principal of Carrabungla Merino stud, said the ram had a good sirey head and stood particularly well.
“He was square and good on his feet and he fits in well to our operation,” Mr McIntosh said.
“We were looking for something that will put a bit more wool into the flock without losing our type, without going too heavy, and he had a nice crimpy wool which is keeping in line with what we have already got.”
The second highest price ram was purchased by Graham Robertson, Sutton Range, Bookham, for $2500.
The ram had fleece measurements of 17.8-micron fibre diameter, 3 SD, 16.9pc CV and 99.8pc CF.
Volume buyer was Adare Pastoral Company, Bowning, who took away eight rams to a top of $1100 and $663 average.
A and K Hall of Gunning purchased six rams to an average of $650 while L.E. and S.H Bush, “Hillview”, Berremangra, also secured six rams to a high of $1000 and average of $767.
Billa Burra Burra stud principal, Keith McGrath, said the draft were a good drop of rams, with the heaviest of them 100 kilograms.
“They held up very well through there recent heavy rains and on the day they penned up and presented nicely,” Mr McGrath said.
“It was good to see return clients of over 30 years here as well as three new clients, which is always pleasing to see.
“In all, it was a positive outcome.”
The sale was conducted by Phil and Sally Butt of Butt Livestock and Property, Yass.