When 134 first cross ewes with lambs at foot sell for $535 per head, it sends a clear message to the Australian sheep industry: superior maternal genetics command premium prices.

For Malcolm Starritt of Womboota Border Leicester Stud, this outstanding sale result represents more than just good market timing – it’s validation of 111 years of focused breeding for commercial profitability.

The Mathematics of Genetic Excellence

“The numbers speak for themselves,” said Mr Starritt, whose family has been breeding Border Leicesters since 1914. “When first cross ewes with lambs at foot are making $535, you’re looking at a significant profit advantage for producers using our genetics.”

The price differential isn’t accidental. As a founding member of Superborders, Womboota Border Leicesters breeds rams that consistently rank above breed average on the BLX Index – the industry’s key measure for first cross production profitability.

Your Investment Opportunity

The upcoming Womboota Pastoral Ram Sale on Thursday, September 25, presents farmers with an opportunity to access the genetics behind the $535 ewe sale result.

With 80 premium rams and 15 select ewes on offer, buyers can choose from genetics proven to deliver:

• Higher first cross ewe values
• Superior lambing percentages
• Faster growth rates
• Better muscling characteristics
• Improved wool quality in crossbred progeny

Beyond the Sale Ring

The real value of Womboota Border Leicester genetics extends far beyond individual sale results. Their breeding program focuses on:

• Proven hybrid vigour through purebred systems
• Repeatable performance across different environments
• Data-driven selection using Lambplan ASBVs
• Long-term client relationships built on consistent results

“We’re not just selling rams,” Mr Starritt said. “We’re providing a complete production system that allows our clients to brand and market premium progeny year after year.”

Market Timing and Opportunity

With Australian sheep markets experiencing record strength and tight supply conditions, the timing couldn’t be better for producers to invest in superior genetics. The recent $535 ewe sale demonstrates the market’s appetite for quality maternal genetics.

“This market rewards producers who can offer branded, traceable, high-performance breeding stock,” Mr Starritt. “Our sheep genetics give clients that competitive edge.”

The Womboota Advantage

What sets Womboota Border Leicester Stud apart in the competitive ram genetics market?

• 111 years of breeding heritage with generations of genetic improvement
• Superborders membership ensuring superior genetic ranking
• Visual excellence combined with measured performance
• Commercial focus – they run their own first cross operation
• Complete support including delivery and ongoing advice

The Bottom Line

As Mr Starritt puts it: “Good genetics make money while you sleep. With results like our recent $535 ewe sale, that investment in superior Border Leicester genetics pays dividends year after year.”

Don’t miss your opportunity to access these proven genetics at the Womboota Pastoral Ram Sale, Thursday September 25, 2025, 1:00 PM start.

Contact Malcolm Starritt on 0429 893 200 or visit www.wombootaleicesters.com for full sale details.