With 4500 first-cross ewes on offer today at the annual Barellan Breeders First-cross Ewe Sale, values were consistent with those paid for top quality young breeders in excellent condition.
The autumn 2020 drop ewes sold from $450 to $300 with most above $400.
Top price at $450 was paid for the pen of 200 March-2020 drop, November-shorn ewes offered by Flagg Family Trust, Moombooldool.
By selected Mt Beckom Border Leicester rams from One Oak classed breeders and Goolgumbla-blood ewes bred at Moulamein they were the top of drop and had average weight of 79.9kg on assessment.
Doug and Scott McDonald, McDonald Farming, Barellan were awarded the sash for the best presented pen sponsored by Ian Tonancia, S.J Tonacia and Co, Mt Beckom Border Leicester stud, Ardlethan for the second year running.
Their pen of 170 March/April 2020-drop and October shorn ewes attracted the eye of judge, retired agent Neil Grimmer, Temora for their eveness, stretch of body and femininity.
"There is a great lineup of sheep here," he said.
"They are all showing signs of a good start to their careers but I thought the pen had the edge for their very even presentation.
"A top quality pen of ewes."
Sired by Mt Beckom Border Leicester rams from Ballatherie Station, Hillston bred Merino ewes, and weighing 67.9kg average when assessed, they were purchased by Wodonga-based interests for $428.
Repeat buyers were much in evidence with sheep going to Crookwell, Wagga Wagga, Yerong Creek and Barellan while interests from Wodonga and Leongatha, Victoria were able to satisfy their requirements.
The sale was conducted by Barellan-based agencies Mark Flagg Livestock and Property Pty Ltd and Findlays Barellan and was interfaced with AuctionsPlus.
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