Record Breakers: (L-R) Elders stock agent Trent Head, Bill Bott, Will Bott and head auctioneer Harry Cozens. Photos: Federation Council
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Federation Council
The Bott family made history at the Corowa saleyards last week, setting a new record for first-cross ewes at $641.
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The family beat the previous record of $620 at West Wyalong a month earlier, making the Corowa result a significant milestone.
The first-cross ewes were purchased by Deniliquin farmer Doug Knight, who bought more than 120 head at the sale.
Owner Bill Bott said the result exceeded his expectations.
“I had no idea that it was any sort of record, but it was certainly a higher number than what I expected,” Mr Bott said.
“I thought at the start of the sale it would probably be in the mid-$500s, but anything higher than that was going to be a bonus.”
Mr Bott said his focus had always been presenting the sheep to the best of his ability and allowing the market to determine their value.
The Bott family has built its reputation on consistent breeding and proven genetics, primarily using Alma blood ewes, bred by Graham Morphett.
Elders Corowa livestock manager, Scott Parker said the record reflected declining sheep numbers, increasing overseas demand for sheep meat and improved returns for producers.
“Numbers in the country as a whole are down significantly, and the demand for meat overseas is increasing, so it’s just the perfect storm at the moment,” Mr Parker said.
Buyers are competing for quality stock as stronger lamb and mutton prices improve.
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Federation Council
First-cross ewes produce second-cross lambs for the prime lamb market, but many producers reduced breeding numbers or left the industry when returns failed to justify the investment.
With fewer breeding ewes available, buyers are competing for quality stock as stronger lamb and mutton prices improve the potential returns.
“Prices have gone through the roof for lamb and mutton, and now we’re seeing extraordinary prices for these ewes on the back of those numbers,” Mr Parker said.
“If you want them and there aren’t many, you pay for them.”
Better wool returns, strong lambing percentages and higher second-cross lamb prices are helping restore confidence.
“For the first time in the last 10 years, the sheep are actually putting their noses in front of cropping,” Mr Parker said.
The average across the 2,700-head yarding was equally important, demonstrating strong competition throughout the sale.
“We sold 2,700 head and averaged $570; that’s fantastic ... we’ve also had a record average,” Mr Parker said.
He added that seeing the Bott family rewarded for their long-term commitment was particularly pleasing.
Bott family stock agent Trent Head said repeat buyers and confidence in the family’s genetics had helped underpin the sale’s success.
“People are coming back because they’re getting results,” Mr Head said.
He also praised vendors for presenting their sheep in excellent condition despite seasonal challenges.
However, rebuilding sheep numbers will take time, with producers who have left the industry facing the cost of upgrading fences, yards and other infrastructure.
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