One of the organisers of the inaugural “Mei Veiling”, Charl Saunderson, says it is increasingly important for buyers to be able to know they are getting and what they are paying for.

He says, for example, the purchase of a ram that is carrying Bruccella ovis can lead to infection and infertility of all rams in a buyer’s herd.

“We go all out to get a veterinarian to test for Brucella ovis, Brucella militensis and pistol sickness. Then there is also a system where the vets test the animals for general health.

“This is to show that we know that we not only sell beautiful animals that have been performance tested by SA Stud Book, but also animals that are really healthy.”

Saunderson says around 80% of the nearly 200 animals on offer have also been performance tested, with plans to ensure future auctions only offer 100% performance tested stock. He says the bulk of the sheep were also on show at the recent World Dorper Championships in Bloemfontein.

The auction is presented by KLK at the Upington Show Grounds on 11 and 12 May.

The sheep come from the studs of Charl Suanderson, Dorper SA President Dries Wiesse, Namibian breeder Philip Strauss, mega farmer Francis Visagie, White Dorper specialist Tony Cahi and two time Dorper World Championship breeder of champions Hendri van Wyk.

Sabrina Dean/OFM News