Santas at Ravensbourne

They kept their resolve to outlast other interest in Strathmore J396, the son of a classified sire, and purchased him for $11,000.

According to the couple, who hail from Kolane, Wandoan, the Walker family's preparation of their bulls and their ability to go straight to work, were attractive to them.

"We were also chasing poll bulls," said Rachel, whose father Colin Kehl has previously invested in Gyranda, Diamond H and Dangarfield genetics.

"We thought we'd see what was on offer out here."

A weight of 670kg, scrotal circumference of 36cm and an EMA of 110sq cm were some of their bull's characteristics.

They also handed over $10,500 for Strathmore J616, a 21-month-old herd bull sired by Strathmore B672, weighing 652kg and with rib and rump measurements of 5 and 4mm.

In all, the couple returned to Wandoan with four bulls for an average of $9000.

Boulia's Willsdown Pastoral Co headed back west to Windsor Park with 12 Strathmore bulls, paying $5000 twice, for J334, a classified S bull, and J68, a herd bull sired by Gyrandah D764.

The sale's other main volume buyer was John and Jocelyn Chandler at Kyneton, Barcaldine.

They bought 10 bulls for an average of $5500, paying to a top of $6500 three times.

Buyers came from all parts of Queensland to secure Strathmore

genetics, including Eddie and Trish Dennis of Old Twin Hills at

Clermont, who selected five bulls for their herd.

Best of the local Blackall buyers was Greg and Jill Peck, Purtora,

paying an average of $7400 for five bulls.

The 40 classified S bulls offered at the sale returned an average of $5363 while the 28 herd bulls averaged $5125.

Ian Walker said it had been a very pleasing result, considering the season, and the concerns held about buying capacity.