There were 109 bulls offered at the Herefords sale in Dubbo, with a 93 per cent clearance.

The top bull sold for $62,000, which went to Warragundi Beef Company, Currabubula, NSW, after they bought reserve champion Supermarket Index winner, Days Banner J37 from Lachy and Lou Day, Days Whiteface, Bordertown, SA.

The average selling price was $8688 - a massive $1938 up on last year.

The sale drew in 149 registered bidders from Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania. Herefords Australia CEO John McKew said there was a bright future for the Australian beef and Hereford industry.

“It was great driving here and seeing all the Hereford bulls in paddocks,” he said.

“Hereford cattle are one of Australia’s pre-eminent breeds and I think for 20 years people forgot its value. “But we’re currently on the cusp of great times.”

A highlight in the sale was the auction of a donated heifer from Ken and Liz Ikin, from Cloverlee Poll Herefords, Bannister, NSW, with the proceeds going to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

The charity heifer sold for $6000 from purchasers Stewart and Emily Latter, Moorine Poll Herefords, Maitland, NSW.

Ms Ikin, a registered nurse, was injured in a quad bike accident on the couple’s Bannister farm three years ago and was a recipient of the helicopter rescue service.

“After recovering I went straight back to work as I was grateful to be alive,’’ Mrs Ikin said.

“I want to thank the rescue helicopter staff for their wonderful service and the professionalism they deliver.’’

At the show on Monday, Grand Champion bull was awarded to Steve and Therese Crowley, Tycolah Poll Herefords, Barraba, NSW, with Tycolah Monarch J135. Judge Andrew Green from Euroa, Victoria, said he was happy with the bulls on offer

. “The quality of bulls shows the breed is progressing and heading in the right direction,” he said.

When it came time to announce the Senior Champion bull winner, Mr Green was impressed with the quality.

“They’re all carrying impressive muscle, they’re well-balanced and structurally sound,” he said.

A loud cheer erupted when the award went to Greg and Del Rees, The Ranch Poll Herefords, in Tomingley, with The Ranch Tipperary J06.