NEW and returning established clients took home every ram offered at the 12th on-property Bella Lana Poll Merino stud sale at Dripstone near Wellington on Wednesday.
All 125 rams sold in a total auction clearance for a healthy $2492 average, up $556 on last year, and selling an extra 35 rams. While the majority of buyer came from all parts of NSW, a Victorian was among three buyers purchasing online through AuctionsPlus.
Returning to purchase the top-price ram, MJO Rural's Muz O'Malveney, Yeramba, Canowindra, this year had to fight a bidding dual to $10,000 to secure the high performer sired by Wallaloo Park 170760 and from a ewe sired by KAR 070788.
This PP poll ram growing 18 micron was in the top five per cent ranking for number of lambs weaned (NLW), Merino production - plus (MP+) and Dual purpose plus (DP+).
Mr O'Malveney said he returned each year because Bella Lana rams produced better performing lambs from his flock of 800 ewes.
"Lambs made an extra $20 a head for me this year," he said.
Second top price of $6250 was paid by N Hearn, Dinghy Flat, Bigga, for a 17.7 micron son of Wallaloo Park 150294. He also purchased another ram for $4750.
Third top-priced ram at $6000 was purchased by the Bruce family, Koorong, Bombala.
Returning each year was Warren Leeson, Anglewood, Dunedoo, who purchased four rams averaging $3625 and topping at $4250 for a son of Kerin Poll 151911 growing 17.1 micron wool and a leader for yearling weight (YWT).
The sale was conducted by Nutrien Stud Stock, Dubbo, with John Settree the auctioneer.
- Full report in The Land October 1 edition.