HIGH hopes for another record year have been expressed by the proprietor of a Furner beef cattle stud on the eve of its annual onsite auction.
Woonallee Simmentals set a new benchmark at its 2017 sale 11 months ago with the top price of $160,000 for a bull.
All eyes now turn to the selling ring on February 8 to see if a new record can be set when 110 bulls go under the hammer.
Since the annual auctions began a decade ago, the Woonallee sale has grown in stature and brings hundreds of locals and out-of-towners to Furner.
Woonallee co-proprietor Tom Baker said 2017 proved to be an incredible year for the stud with record prices both in its seed stock business and the commercial program.
“Although we are incredibly humbled and proud of last year’s results, we cannot be more motivated and driven to improve on every aspect of our program,” Mr Baker said.
“Southern Australia has again seen a favourable season with good general rainfall through most of the region.
“The second wet winter in a row certainly challenged us in many ways.
“It did however mean spring was going to be good which has been the case.
“The past good season and a strong cattle market give us confidence in what we do.”
Mr Bakers message was contained in the stud’s 2018 catalogue.
“This year’s draft of bulls is extremely exciting, the consistency of these bulls in each of their sectors is incredible and the hours, days and years we have spent searching and investing in genetics is proving to be money and time well spent,” he said.
“Our ability to put so much selection pressure on these bulls due to the sheer numbers we now have allowed us to offer a truly amazing line.
“The bulls have been narrowed down to 110 from a starting group of over 180.
“The bulls have a bit to live up to after last year and we are confident this year’s draft is our best ever.”
