With the heat at dust on Day 1 giving way to rain on Day 10 as the ‘mini-city’ that amassed Tamworth’s AELEC for 10 days disbands, we reflect on what was yet another positive outcome at the Nutrien Classic Campdraft & Sale.
Nutrien Equine are delighted with the 17th Nutrien Classic Sale results, which were in line with current economic markets and a reduction in horse numbers due to wet conditions preventing numerous vendors from attending the 2024 event. The strength in statistics is a true testament to the commitment and resilience of the industry and its members.
With sales negotiations still underway, the 2024 Nutrien Classic Sale has generated over $12 million for the Australian performance horse industry. From 554 horses offered for sale, 88.63% sold for an overall average of $25,058.
There was good demand for proven female lines again this year, with a range of quality mares and fillies bringing an average of $32,446. Lot 496 HAZELWOOD CON OAK (Hazelwood Conman x Oaks Prospect) was the star of the show as top price mare and lot of the sale, selling for $180,000 to Ben & Rae Hill of Thallon, Queensland. She was presented by the talented horseman Will Durkin on behalf of Terry & Christine Hall, who have been returning vendors at the Nutrien Classic Sale since its inception in 2008.
Terry & Christine also celebrated an Australian-first milestone during this years event, with their sire “Hazelwood Conman” reaching a remarkable $10 million in progeny sold through the Nutrien Classic and Masters Sales. Amongst these has been more than 10 progeny winners of events at the Nutrien Classic, from Campdrafts to Challenges. An amazing achievement for a sire who has certainly cemented himself as a legend of the industry.
Conman genetics were a common theme amongst other top prices of the 2024 sale, with the 3-year-old filly DURKINS TEMPEST – HSH on account of Will Durkin the runner up sale topper. The black mare by Hazelwood Conman out of Toomba Tempo (Stanton Stud Black Breeze) boasts proven genetics on both sides and was purchased by the Trustee for the Moy family for $160,000.
The gelding market grossed more than $4.4 million and averaged over $17,828, with 250 notable lots sold. Top priced gelding was sold on Sunday at Lot 538 – HALO SPRINGS ROMERO on account of Tsidkenu Pty Ltd. The 4-year-old BC Gigolo x Chickasha Julia gelding sold for $92,500 to Sasha Mylrea.
22 stallions sold averaged $35,521, topped by Lot 285 CALL ME DADDY – an impressive 2-year-old colt sold by a local vendor who has had a lot of success at the Nutrien Classic in Holly Clayden. CALL ME DADDY is one of the first Call Me Mitch progeny in Australia and out of open winning mare Moore Park One Moore Rose. He sold to WEC Industries Pty Ltd for $80,000 and was well presented by trainer Ben O’Reilly.
This year’s Nutrien Classic was attended by competitors, vendors, purchasers and spectators from every corner of Australia and beyond. The livestream was viewed from countries including the US, Canada, New Zealand, UK, and Hong Kong. Over 1200 bid cards were registered, one of the highest levels of interest ever seen from buyers.
Nutrien Equine would like to extend thanks to staff, sponsors, cattle donors and vendors for their hard work in preparation for the sale and traders, spectators, AELEC staff, contractors and volunteers for their ongoing support. Congratulations must also go to the Classic Ladies Foundation, who this year celebrated over $1 million in funds raised at the event since their inception in 2016 – a tremendous effort from all involved.
The strength of the Australian Performance Horse industry is evident despite current economic conditions and Nutrien Equine are extremely proud to be at the forefront of its future growth and success in the future.
Buyers are reminded that passed in lots can be viewed in the online catalogue and their incentive eligibility will remain if sold according to due process in the coming days following the 2024 Sale. Please contact Nutrien Equine with all relevant enquiries.
Check out the 2024 Classic Statistics HERE