Superior Wool Merinos posts total ram clearance and $3377 average, up more than $1300, at 19th annual Poll Merino sale
Summary
Superior Wool Merinos (SWM) delivered a standout result at its 19th annual on-property ram sale, lifting its sale average by more than $1300 year-on-year and drawing bidders from South Australia's pastoral country through to high-rainfall Tasmania. The Tintinara-based Poll Merino stud achieved a total clearance of all 120 rams in the main auction for a $3377 average, joining a small group of studs to average above $3000. That marked a dramatic rise from 2025, when 117 of 119 rams averaged $2017. Demand ran deep across the catalogue, with 32 registered bidders competing and five of them securing double-digit tallies. All 35 rams in the mini auction also cleared for a $1749 average, and a further 25 rams sold through private selection by day's end. The sale topper reached $10,000 for an 18.4-micron ram noted for its frame, cover and predictable pedigree, with a clean fleece weight ranking in the top 10 per cent on ASBV at 32.63. The underbidder went on to secure 12 top-end rams for a $4833 average, including a $7750 purchase. The most active buyer assembled 36 rams for a $1992 average across the main and mini auctions, while another operation took 11 rams at a $3305 average and a third bought 11 at a $2432 average. Long renowned for white, well-nourished wool, the stud has broadened its appeal by adding carcase qualities, producing sheep buyers say can handle both cold, bleak Tasmanian conditions and the dry, dusty pastoral bush. Strong wool, sheep and lamb prices underpinned the buoyant trade and the widespread clientele support.
Key Data
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Main auction clearance | 120 of 120 Poll Merinos (total) |
| Main auction average | $3377 |
| 2025 main auction average | $2017 (117 of 119) |
| Sale average increase | more than $1300 year-on-year |
| Sale topper price | $10,000 (18.4 micron) |
| Mini auction | 35 of 35 rams, $1749 average |
| Registered bidders | 32 |
| Underbidder purchases | 12 rams, $4833 average |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many rams sold at the 2026 Superior Wool Merinos sale and at what average?
The main auction achieved a total clearance of all 120 Poll Merinos for a $3377 average. All 35 rams in the mini auction also sold for a $1749 average, and a further 25 rams were sold by private selection.
How much did the sale average rise compared with 2025?
The sale average lifted by more than $1300 on the previous year. In 2025, 117 of 119 rams had averaged $2017.
What was the top price and what were the ram's details?
The sale topper made $10,000 for an 18.4-micron ram. It was noted for its frame, cover and a clean fleece weight ranking in the top 10 per cent on ASBV at 32.63.
How many bidders competed at the sale?
There were 32 registered bidders. Five of them secured double-digit tallies from the catalogue.
Where were the buyers based?
Buyers came from a wide geographical area, stretching from South Australia's pastoral country to high-rainfall Tasmania. The result reflected a broad spread of clientele.
What did the underbidder on the top ram go on to buy?
The underbidder secured 12 top-end rams for a $4833 average. That included a $7750 purchase.
What breeding focus has driven the stud's appeal?
Long renowned for white, well-nourished wool, the stud has added carcase qualities to broaden its appeal. Buyers noted the sheep can handle both cold Tasmanian conditions and dry pastoral country.
What market conditions supported the strong result?
Strong wool, sheep and lamb prices underpinned the buoyant trade. The widespread and loyal clientele also contributed.
