Big entry all ready for Perth bull event

Perth bull sales get under way next week with about 500 bulls and 600 females for sale between 6 and 8 February.

As usual, United Auctions’ fixture begins with the Aberdeen Angus breed.

There are about 220 bulls on offer along with strong female consignments from top-ranking herds.

Among the most talked about Aberdeen Angus bulls is one combining new genetics from New Zealand, part of the Wedderlie consignment from John and Marion Tilson’s herd at Gordon, Berwickshire.

Mrs Tilson said: “The New Zealand Angus has a lot to offer; it’s very correct and has a ‘thriveability’ that has been developed to suit New Zealand conditions and should be of value to the breed here.”

The best price for Wedderlie bulls at Perth came in February 2003 with 25,000gns paid by Kelso breeder John Elliot for Wedderlie Netmark.

Aberdeenshire cattle breeders Neil and Graham Massie’s Blelack herd will field one of the biggest Angus teams with 12 forward.

“The Angus has made huge strides in recent years.

There’ll be bulls at Perth under two years old weighing over a tonne which puts the breed up there with the Continentals,” said Neil.

Beef Shorthorn bulls and females have enjoyed a renaissance at recent Perth gatherings and next week’s entry of 60 bulls presents entries from many leading herds including Glenisla, Uppermill and Tofts.