Brought forward by four weeks due to deteriorating seasonal conditions, the opening spring sheep sale in the Riverina saw values higher than expectations, with comment around the rails mentioning figures like “$30 to $50 better than we thought”.
The sale was described as “very strong considering the season” by Landmark, Hay manager Geoff McDougall.
“There were opportunities for buyers with feed to grow the stock out, but vendors were also happy with their prices,” he said.
“Most of the sheep were in good order and a credit to the vendors”.
Top price was $202 paid for 482 May/June 2017 drop, Dohne Merino ewes, November-shorn and Mt Alma-blood on account J.H.W Paterson and Son. “Hells Gate”, Hay.
The McGufficke family, “Bunumbert”, Balranald sold 373 April/May 2017 drop, July-shorn Alma-blood Merino ewes for $190.
Among the wethers, Bob and Gai McEwen, “Kitcho”, Oxley sold 411 May/June 2016 drop, August-shorn sheep for $105.
Unshorn Merino wether lambs, April/May 2018 drop, Poll Pooginook-blood account Paraway Pastoral Co, “Ulonga”, Hay sold for $82 for the pen off 455.
Buyers from Ballarat, Bendigo, Nhill and kerang in Victoria competed with SA interests from Bordertown and Keith; and local restockers from Griffith, Barellan, Wagga Wagga and Gundagai.
Hay agents Elders and Landmark conducted the sale.
Full report The Land 16 August