The annual Hazeldean Merino ram sale at “Rosevale”, Hay, had been postponed for two weeks due to the very wet conditions, but loyal clients understood and returned to once again secure their sire requirements from the stud with a high reputation for breeding Merino and Poll Merino rams with the conformation to match their figures.
The top price at $5200 was paid for a Poll Merino son of Centre Plus Poll 907538, while the top price for a Merino ram was $3200 paid for a son Hazeldean 11000043.
Overall 100 rams sold from 103 offered for sale average $1896.
Stud principal, Jim Litchfield was very pleased with the result, and especially paid tribute to the forbearance of loyal clients in understanding the changed date of sale.
“I am very happy with the sale,” Mr Litchfield said.
“The sheep are really well grown and presented well.
“We had great support from existing buyers with interest shown by new purchasers.”
The top price ram was bought by return client Tony Flanery, “Lowlynn”, Galong, who purchased a draft of eight rams for average $2825.
Mr Flanery selected the top priced ram for his outsatnding ASBV’s, including MerinoPlus Index 160.37 with mean micron 18.73.
“I thought he was an outstanding ram who will continue to improve the quality of my flock,” he said.
“Overall, he has a great structure to match his figures and a lot of wool.”
Among volume buyers, TA Field Estates, Wyvern Station, Carrathool, purchased 26 rams for average price $1562, to add to their sire battery.
The sale was conducted by Landmark, Hay, with Kevin Norris and Rick Power sharing the auctioneering duties.