Local sheep breeding business Goonigal Poll Dorsets owners and operators Charles and Robbie Lawrence say they are looking forward to its first ever town sale, and that it’s a much fairer way to sell their sheep. Their big day will be Tuesday August 30 at the Canowindra Showground from 11.30am, with 90 rams to be on offer on the day.
In its current form, Goonigal Poll Dorsets have been operating for 10 years, but before the Lawrence family purchased the stud, located on Back Mogong Road, it had been running under the previous ownership for 40 years. Goonigal Poll Dorsets breeds flock rams to produce prime lambs, which sells to the sucker and export markets.
Until now they have always sold their livestock at the farm, but with business having grown a lot in recent times, they decided it was time to hold a town sale in Canowindra. “It was necessary to have a town sale as our clientele and business has grown so much,” said Charles Lawrence. “It makes it fairer for everyone as well. We find some people won’t come out to the farm to have a look, as they feel obliged to make a purchase, but with the town sale, people will feel more free to just come and have a look, and won’t be pressured into purchasing.”
“We’re looking forward to the sale, and the rams are looking good and ready to go.” Cowra livestock agency Allan Gray and Co will auction off the 90 rams at the sale. Robbie Lawrence said there was good feedback from clientele who have sold suckers at 14-16 weeks old and 24 kilos in dressed weight selling for around $150 per head.
The bloodline for Goonigal Poll Dorsets rams is Hillden and Armdale Park, and Armdale. The stock scan figures for the upcoming sale will be available on the business’ Facebook page on August 20.