CLAREMONT Angus' annual on-property bull sale was a cause for celebration, with improved market conditions and a prestigious award lifting spirits in the sale shed.
Thirty-three registered buyers joined a full gallery at the Woolsthorpe property, where 35 of 40 bulls offered were sold to $7500 and averaged $3650.
Angus Australia state chairman Brad Gilmour initiated celebrations early, awarding the Glasgow family the prestigious 2014 Borthwick Trophy.
The purebred steer exhibited by Longernong College was bred by Claremont Blacks Angus and returned the title to the Angus breed after a 15-year hiatus.
It was the ideal segue for the family's bull sale, which had an increase of $600 on last year's average.
Loyal supporter Brian Smith, Yambuk, purchased the top-priced bull, Claremont Blacks J3231, after optimal seasonal conditions and improved market prices boosted his budget.
The April 2013-drop bull was the heaviest in the catalogue at 914 kilograms and recorded estimated breeding values (EBVs) of +6.1 for birth weight, +126 for 600-day weight, +1.9 for eye muscle area and +1.1 for intramuscular fat.
Mr Smith said the bull's style, width, frame and docility impressed him.
The second-highest price was paid twice by David and Jenny McGlade for Lot 12, a Buffalos Conclusive BN46 son, and Kilmorey Partnership, Woolsthorpe for Lot 9, a Wilson Downs Equator V191 son.
It was one of three bulls purchased by Kilmorey Partnership that av $5583.
Another notable buyer was Dan Jarrett, who purchased three bulls to $4000, av $3417, for his family's Orford property.
Mr Jarrett's top-priced bull, Claremont Blacks J313, was a weighty Tiger 5T son and was selected for its low birth weight of +3.1 and high growth and conditioning.
Claremont Angus principal Graeme Glasgow said he was "blown away" by the prestigious award.
Annabelle Beale
National Sheep & Wool Writer for Fairfax Agricultural Media
National Sheep & Wool Writer for Fairfax Agricultural Media
