Solid average for Carricowie

In its 19th annual ram sale, 49 of 50 rams averaged $1340 - with the first 10 averaging $2240 - and sold from the West Coast to Broken Hill.

Across the draft, the rams averaged 20 microns and 95 kilograms.

Topping the draft was a son of Poll Boonoke 001 which tested at 20.6M, with 3.4 standard deviation, 16.3 per cent coefficient of variation and 99.1pc comfort factor.

Retired Minlaton agent Ian 'Ocker' Austin purchased the 108kg ram on behalf of GF Germein, Minlaton.

"He has very good, stylish wool," he said.

"It has a good long staple, and is well nourished and white."

Mr Austin also purchased a son of Carricowie 213 at $2200 for Mr Germein.

CJ&JAF Buttfield, Port Vincent, purchased the second-top price ram at $2600.

This 108kg ram was a descendant of Roseville Park 3091 which tested 20.5M, with a 3.2SD, 15.7pc CV and 99pc CF.

The Buttfields bought one other ram at $1800.

Volume buyers were Owen Chandler Nominees, Ceduna, who took seven rams to $800.

Nundora Station, Broken Hill, took six to $700, and TD Smith & Co and J Kemp & Sons each took five rams to $1800 and $1400 respectively.

Carricowie principal Bronte Blyth said he was very happy, particularly with the good clearance.

"To have a clearance like that is very pleasing," he said.

"It gives everyone a bit more confidence in the Merino industry."

The sale was conducted by Landmark, with Leo Redden undertaking selling duties.