Rockwood tops Oak Downs

The stud sold 34 of 40 offered to a top of $20,000 and an average of $9313.

Stud principal Andrew Schwarz said the sale went well and they are happy with the result.

"It was good to see the northern interest - they supported us well with three bigger orders," he said.

"It's the first time we have used helmsman despite it being our eleventh sale.

"The helmsman was appreciated and we will do it again next year as it makes it easier for people to buy the bulls they want.

"I was very surprised Lot 33 was the top-price bull.

"It's a good younger bull, with handy figures and a structurally correct bull."

Mr Schwarz said the bull stood up well compared to the younger bulls.

The top price bull Oak Downs Rockwood R173 was bought by Hillcrest Pastoral Company, Avenue Range.

Sired by Allendale Imperial N114 (TW) (PP), it weighed 750 kilograms with estimated breeding values of +5.6 for birthweight, a 200-day weight of +39, 400-day weight of +65, 600-day weight of +89 and +3.7 scrotal size. It also had 3.7 for eye muscle area and +0.8 for rib fat.

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Hillcrest Pastoral Company business manager Libby Creek said the top-price bull was selected on figures to run over their Angus and Angus-Baldy cross female herd.

"He was a top pick but generally we are looking for above average growth, fat, ... above average EMA, calving ease and fertility," she said.

"We like soft, easy doing type bulls."

Mrs Creek said they have purchased Oak Downs bulls before, they have done the job and have been reliable bulls for them so they are happy to keep coming back.

They purchased a further five bulls, with all six to an average of $14,666.

Elders Keith livestock agent Steven Doecke said the sale was strong.

"The Schwarz were well supported by past clients," he said.

"The result was quite good and the top-price bull had good growth and fat figures.

"He looked quite good in the pen."

Volume buyers also included Williams Cattle Co who secured seven to a top of $7000 twice and an average of $5857 while Todmorden Stations, Oodnadatta, took home nine after successfully purchasing six in the sale to a top of $17,000 twice and an average of $11,333.

They then purchased a further three at the completion of the sale.

The sale was conducted by Elders Keith and interfaced with AuctionsPlus.