Full clearance welcomed at Hillview Dohne Merinos on Eyre Peninsula

The Hillview Dohne Merino stud enjoyed a surprising full clearance and lift in average at its annual on-property ram sale at Chilpenunda on Friday.

Stud principals Robert and Heather Holmes were expecting a seasonal impact on the final result, but were more than happy with the sale of 60 rams to an average of $1628 and top price of $5000 twice.

This compared favourably to 2024, when 62 of 65 rams sold to $3500 twice, and an average $1400.

The high price points of the day came for Lots 13 and 23, which were knocked down to AA Trezona & Son, Streaky Bay, and LG&KL Whillas, Port Lincoln, respectively.

Lot 13 had a nice spread of figures on Dohne Australian Sheep Breeding Values, ranking in the top 5 per cent of the breed on yearling clean fleece weight (18.16pc), as well as the top 10pc on number of lambs weaned (0.11pc), post weaning weight (7.75 kilograms), yearling fibre diameter (-1.06 micron) and index value (174.30).

It carried an 18.7 micron fleece with a 100pc comfort factor and 71.8pc yield.

"The top price rams were structured with good body frame and nice wool - complementing the Dohne features," Mr Holmes said.

Lot 23 also ranked in the top 5pc of the breed on YCFW (17.89pc), as well as the top 20pc on NLW (0.09pc) and index value (169.08).

Across the 60 rams, volume buyers included AA Trezona & Son, Everglen Ag, Lock, TJ Patterson Pty Ltd, Streaky Bay, Lee Farming Pty Ltd and PF&DM Watson, Yantanabie.

"We aim for a full clearance every year, but were not expecting it given the seasonal conditions," Mr Holmes said.

"Things are still tough for some, needing a very kind spring to finish the season off.

"We appreciate our returning buyers and really thrive to breed rams to the needs of those who support us every year."

The sale was conducted by Elders.