RMA Network auctioneers James Tierney, Riverina Livestock Agents Wagga Wagga and Bernie Grant, LMB Linke Livestock Hamilton, and spotters Peter Creek, Miller Whan & John Mt Gambier, Darren Maney, Thomas De Garis & Clarkson Penola, Robin Steen, Pinkerton Palm Hamlyn & Steen Naracoorte, John Franklin, Charles Stewart Pty Ltd Hamilton conducted the Clark Rubber Working Dog Auction, now in it's 16th year, 2012 broke the record for the highest price paid for a Premier Working Dog, at a price of $12,000.
The 2012 event also saw the introduction of the RMA Network Working Dog Auction Futurity, and in 2013 showcased the Kelpies that were purchased the previous year.
In 2013, 72 dogs were offered for sale with 50 dogs sold for an average of $3208. Clearance rate of 69.4%. Total Value sold $160,400.
The top priced Working Dog Sold was Lot No. 54, Ben sold for $10,500 by Matthew Johnson, Westbury, Tasmania to Paul and Jean Weeding from Triabunna, Tasmania.
The second highest price of $10,000 was achieved by vendor Ian O'Connell of Hamilton with Bagalla Mister, purchased by Evan Flint from Kingston, South Australia.
Working Dog Auction committee president Nancy Withers said the quality of the dogs was excellent.
"I'd say it was the best line up of dogs we've ever had", Ms Withers said. She described the prices as very good and reflective of current market conditions. "They reflect the prevailing prices for livestock in the past 12 months which dictate how much buyers can spend. Overall we're very happy."