The Hay Saleyards were the scene of an exceptional day of trading on Friday, with Friday's annual spring sheep sale being hailed as one of the best store sheep sales the region has ever seen.

Hosted by Hay Associated Agents, the auction was defined by a strong yarding of 33,600 sheep and a dispersal sale that attracted widespread interest.

The day's top price was a remarkable $480 per head for a line of Collinsville-blood ewes, bred by Greg and Fred Turner of Abbotsford Station, Ivanhoe. The Turners’ offering of 403 ewes led the market, setting a high standard for the day's proceedings.

The sale's momentum was carried by a series of outstanding prices for other quality lines, reflecting the strong demand for well-bred Merino genetics.

Noteworthy sales included:

• $422 for a large run of 845 ewes from Alma.
• $410 for 400 ewes from Daisy Plain.
• $384 for a line of 612 Goolgumbla ewes.
• $380 for 412 ewes from Mutherumbung.

The significant yarding numbers were boosted by a major dispersal sale from Waiko Station, near Ivanhoe, following the recent change of ownership of the property. This influx of sheep, known for their strong breeding and condition, added to the quality and volume of the offering, contributing to the record prices and competitive bidding.

The success of the sale underscores the health of the Merino sheep industry in the Riverina and Western NSW, with producers from across the region and interstate competing fiercely for stock. The results highlight the value placed on high-performing genetics and the confidence in the long-term outlook for wool and lamb production.

The event not only served as a critical trading platform but also reaffirmed Hay's reputation as a key hub for Australia's Merino industry, with the strong prices setting a positive tone for upcoming regional sales.