Bids hit $22,000
30 Aug, 2011 10:19 AM
The ram prices, in line with wool prices, have risen.
The top-priced ram at the National Merino Ram Sale came from Dubbo stud Roseville Park, selling for $22,000 to Rod and Graham Kent of Kurrajong Park Merino Stud, Delungra. The 17.5 micron ram was a Champion fine-medium wool ram at both this years’ National Sheep Show and the Sydney Royal as well as the Supreme Exhibit and Interbreed Champion at the NSW Sheep Show earlier this year. His estimated breeding values put him as a trait leader for fleece weight, staple strength and micron premium. Buyer Rod Kent said his size and wool would add benefit to their stud. He said they bought him because of his length of wool, beautiful skin and fine wool. “He’s just a very, very good ram that will help improve our stud,” he said. Roseville Park stud principal Michael Coddington said it was “rewarding and encouraging” to see the good results of the sale. As well as the top-price, Roseville Park also equaled the second-top price at auction, twice, with two rams selling for $16,000. “So much work goes into (the stud); so much time, energy and hours,” Mr Coddington said. This was the third time Roseville Park has topped the sale.
The other two high-priced Roseville Park rams sold to Nerstane, Woolbrook and R and H Rollinson. Mr Coddington said the good feeling at the auction was due to several factors. “It is supply and demand- prices of wool are going up, coupled with the good season and the ewe shortage- the stars have aligned,” he said. A Nerstane ram also sold for $16,000 to Borombil and Hawkley Park Merino, while all up seven rams sold for more than $10,000. A ram from Dunedoo stud Pemcaw sold in post-auction negotiations for $20,000 to Iona Partnership. The auction grossed just under $250,000, with an average $5193.75 for the 48 rams sold.
The $22,000 top-priced ram from Roseville Park, Dubbo, held by vendor Matthew Coddington with buyer Rod Kent of Kurrajong Park, Delungra., John Croake of Australian Wool Network and Graham Kent. Photo courtesy The Daily Liberal.