A NEW Australasian record was set when a stallion fetched a staggering $210,000 at the Landmark Classic Equine Sale in Tamworth last week.
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Landmark National Livestock Director Mark Barton said the annual performance horse sale, held from February 4-12 at AELEC, was among the most successful yet with three new records set.
The sale recorded an 83 per cent clearance and grossed $7.28 million, up by $350,000 on last year’s sale.
The average price of a horse sold for $15,568, up on $3000 from last year.
Mr Barton said the clearance rate was slightly down on previous years, but attributed that to the higher reserves brought on by exceptional horsemanship in preparing for the sale.
The top mare was lot 444 Ducks Dual on account of John Brekelmens, of Rockhampton, which fetched $73,000.
The top stallion was lot 413 Moore Metallic on account of R&R Livestock in southern Victoria, reaching $210,000.
It was bought by a Mackay-based pastoral company.
“It’s an Australasian record for a performance horse,” Mr Barton said.
“The previous record was $120,000.”
The top gelding went for $50,000 on lot 499 Bulla Phoenix on account of Bulla Lyn ASH Stud in Victoria, to set a new Australian record.
Stud owners Mark and Shelley Ruff donated a gelding to be auctioned off and donated the proceeds to a charity for the second consecutive year.
Mr Barton said the sale saw 580 horses through the ring and was the most successful one yet, despite a record heatwave hitting the city.
“If you’re not happy with that, it’s time to give up the game,” he said.
“Considering the heat, it was hugely successful.
“The sale reflects the confidence in the performance horse industry at the moment.
“It is also testament to the quality of horsemanship, general work and pre-sale preparation of the vendors and professional trainers.
“It’s nice to see (strong results in the industry) after a tough few years in the past few years.”