Despite the dry conditions, the rams at the 21st annual Glenelg Regional Merino Field Day & Sale presented well and sold to stable prices compared to last year.
The group's president Wayne McClure, Thornlea Merino stud, Harrow, said the good condition of the sheep was testament to the ten studs participating at the field days (Arapiles Plains, Elmbank Poll, GlenDonald, Gleneden, Melrose, Mount Yulong, Thornlea, Wurrook, Valleyella, Glencaber).
"And the rams offered sold accordingly," Mr McClure said.
The 69 rams of 77 offered, sold to a top of $3000 and averaged $1482
The top-priced ram was offered by Peter Fitzgerald, Valleyella, Harrow; and it was the sole purchse to be sent to Tasmania, where Mr McClure understands it will be used in a stud.
Most of the other almost 70 registered buyers were from the Wimmera and Western District, with Mr McClure pleased to see many return and new buyers among the crowd of about 200-250 people.
"We had more first-time buyers," he said, which he suggested was thanks to improved commodity prices, the region's studs' reputations and the support from Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) representatives at the Douglas-based event.
"I think the AWI are working in the right direction and things are looking up."
In opening the event, AWI sheep industry specialist Stuart Hodgson updated producers on the industry and the national flock, and AWI's progress including on encouraging youth in the industry.
Former Merino breeder Sam Thring awarded the champion long wool ram to Wurrook, Rokewood, and short wool to Thornlea.
