Rosy result for Roseleigh

The Cowley family were very pleased to see 27 of their 33 bulls average $4796 and peak at $10,000 twice as they passed through the sale ring at Fairbanks, Keith.

Both $10,000 bulls were by Cluden Newry Fraser F17, whose 15 sons in the sale averaged $5067.

First to hit the top was Roseleigh J22, knocked down to RJ&CM Savage, Lochaber.

From an Allendale PMG Papa Plume A87 daughter, the 800-kilogram sire - one of the heaviest in the catalogue - had the figures to back up its price tag, with estimated breeding values in the top 10 per cent of the breed for 400- and 600-day weights, carcase weight and retail beef yield.

At scanning in November, it had the largest eye muscle area in the catalogue at 111 square centimetres and a 38cm scrotal circumference.

J22 was the Savages' sole purchase.

Mark and Leah Jacob, Colac, Vic, secured the next $10,000 bull, Roseleigh Jimbo J34, a 706kg sire from a Bankhede Brewery B52 daughter.

Jimbo J34 had scanned a 109sq cm EMA in November and measured a 38cm scrotal.

The Jacobs secured five bulls in total, averaging $7333, including one of the second-top bulls at $8000.

Roseleigh Jack J28, another son of Fraser F17 and from an Ardrossan Admiral A2 daughter, was the heaviest bull in the catalogue at 856kg and had an EMA of 108 sq cm.

The second bull at $8000 was Roseleigh Joey J38, the sole son of Ayrvale Bartel E8 in the catalogue, weighing 800kg with a 106sq cm EMA.

Joey J38 was the only purchase for Cam McGrath, Mildura.

Broad Cattle Company, via Marree and Hallett, was the major purchaser on the day, taking five bulls all at $3000.

Dilbong Pastoral Company, Moonie, Qld, took three bulls to $7000, averaging $5500, while Clayton and Grant Waterman, Melrose, also took three to $5000, averaging $4000.

Roseleigh principal Ron Cowley said he was very happy with the result and not too concerned about the passed in lots as he felt they would sell.

"The average is well up on last year," he said.

"Due to the seasonal conditions, we knew the bull market was going to be tough with cow numbers down.

"I'm happy with the clearance, I think we got out pretty well."

He was pleased to have buyers from three states - SA, Vic and Qld - and said Qld buyer Dilbong Pastoral Company had purchased the sire of the top lots, Cluden Newry Fraser F17, 12 months ago.

The sale was conducted by Elders and Landmark with Tony Wetherall and Kevin Norris the respective auctioneers.