Dry conditions made for a tough sale at Swanbrok Angus on Saturday morning, but strong support from local buyers pushed the sale to a top of $8500.
Of the 35 bulls offfered for sale, 34 were sold for an average of $5671.
David and Jo Hands, “Killara”, Barraba, purchsed the top-priced bull, Swanbrook Harvard M39, a 2016 August-drop bull which tipped the scales at 722 kilograms and measured 39 centimetres in scrotal circumference.
The bull had an estimated breeding value (EBV) of +67 for carcase weight, an intramuscular fat (IMF) of +2.7, and +5.8 for eye muscle area (EMA).
The Hands’ also paid an equal-second top price of $8000 for Swanbrook Federal M55.
The 2016 August-drop bull weighed in at 722kg and measured 38cm in scrotal circumference, with EBVs of +71 for carcase weight, an IMF of +1.8, and + 4.8 for EMA.
The other second-top bull, Swanbrook Malachite M145, was purchased by Scott and Laura Simpson, “Glennon”, Oakwood.
The 2016 August-drop bull tipped the scales at 780kg and had a scrotal circumference of 41cm, with EBVs of + 72 for carcase weight, an IMF of +1.6, and +3.6 for EMA.
Top volume buyer on the day was Waldoo Cattle Company, Millmerran, who purchased eight bulls for a top price of $7000 and average of $5250.
Swanbrook Angus stud principal Glynis Turner said it was a relief to get a good result in such trying conditions.
“It was very pleasing to have the support of repeat buyers, most of whom are doing it very tough,” she said.
“It’s been a challenge to be feeding them, yet maintain their fitness and ability to go out into the real world.
“I was very happy with the quality of the bulls from the front all the way to the back of the catalogue, and they had to prove their quality to be offered in the sale.”
The sale was conducted by Colin Say & Co, with Shad Bailey as the auctioneer.
