Hillview hopeful of a full clearance

Chris and Joey Williams, Mat Kerin, Milton, Heather and Mila Holmes, Kym Murray and Robert Holmes, with the equal top-priced rams from the 2024 Hillview sale. (Supplied)

Hillview Dohne Merino Stud is getting ready for its 19th annual on-property ram sale next week, with 60 quality paddock-reared dohne merino rams on offer.

The helmsman auction will take place at 1.30pm at the Streaky Bay stud on Friday, August 15, with the inspection from 11.30am.

Stud principal Robert Holmes said he was hopeful of achieving strong sale results – after a near clearance at the 2024 sale – but noted it was hard to gauge given the difficulties of such a tough, dry season.

Many in the district were forced to reduce livestock numbers and as a result would not be needing as many rams.

“We hope that we can get a full clearance, but I understand it will be difficult this year,” he said.

Mr Holmes was expecting mainly repeat buyers at the sale, but encouraged those who wanted to know about the breed to come along and have a look.

Those attending the sale will find rams representing the dohne traits of “good body structure and merino-style wool”, and free from ovine brucellosis.

Of the 60 on offer, Mr Holmes noted there were qualities he looked to breed with his rams.

“The main traits of the stud are well structured, plain-bodied rams.” he said.

“We like to gain better qualities every year focusing on helping our clients improve their own flock.

“Looking after our clientele is important to us and we pride ourselves in trying our best to accomplish this.”

The sale will be run by Elders Streaky Bay.

Morning tea, lunch and light refreshments will be available throughout the day.