Fierce bidding was encountered on all six lots, but ultimately it was Kevin Keatley, Wellard Agri Limited, Kojonup, who not only purchased the first line for the top price, but also secured 1740 of the 2507 sheep on offer.

After the opening welcome address from Brindley and Gale Landmark Esperance auctioneer Neil Brindley, the sale got underway and within mere seconds lot one had tipped over the $100 mark.

The 609 rising 3-year-old ewes, which were September shorn, had been running with Merino rams from 'Melbourne Cup day' November 3, and had been scanned in lamb on the January 28, 2010, and were purchased for $101.

Mr Keatley moved on to acquire lot two and three, which consisted of 490 rising 4yo ewes of the same description for $96, then he waved his registration number in the air a third time to secure the 641 rising 5yo ewes for $87.

Adding to evidence the Gravestock flock was in widespread demand was the fact that each line purchased by Mr Keatley was destined for areas beyond Esperance – stretching as far as Dongara.

Lot four consisted of 527 April/May drop ewe weaners, that were September shorn and went to phone bidder PH & S Pinkerton Palm Hamlyn Steen Pty Ltd, Naracoorte, South Australia, for $80.

Right next door was a further 121 ewe weaners of the same calibre which were snapped up by the Naracoorte operation over the phone again for $61.